The Italian expression in quanto (in kwan-toh) is quite fancy. Its history, as it is more often than not in Italian, starts with a Latin word, quantum, which means “how much” or “how many.”
Historically, in quanto has been used to connect clauses in a manner that conveys causality or reasoning, similar to “as” or “because” in English. In contemporary Italian, in quanto can be used in a variety of ways: primarily, to explain or justify something by linking it to a cause or condition. For example, we can say, in quanto studente, ho diritto a uno sconto (“As a student, I am entitled to a discount”), or Lui è stato scelto in quanto esperto nel settore (“He was chosen because he is an expert in the field”). In these examples, in quanto functions similarly to the English “as” or “because,” indicating the reason or condition for the statement.
The expression maintains a formal tone, reason for which it often appears in written Italian or formal speech rather than in everyday language. Its usage underscores a logical connection between statements, enhancing clarity and precision in communication.
Moreover, in quanto can be used in legal, academic, and professional contexts where it is essential to clearly state reasons or conditions. For instance: L’accordo è nullo in quanto mancante di firma (“The agreement is void as it lacks a signature”).
In quanto has also the meaning of “as for,” or “regarding” and “about.” For instance, it is commonly used in phrases like In quanto a me, sto lavorando tantissimo (“As for me, I am working a lot”), and also Ho prenotato il treno per Roma. In quanto all’hotel, ci penseremo la prossima settimana (“I booked the train to Rome. About the hotel, we’ll think about it next week”).
- In quanto centesimo cliente della giornata, riceverà un regalo
- As the 100th customer of the day, you are receiving a gift
- Mio marito sta bene, in quanto a me, ho bisogno di una vacanza!
- My husband is doing fine but, as for me, I need a vacation!