Learn Italian with Joy of Languages - Episodes Tagged with “Language Learning”

223: With in Italian: Everyday Examples You’ll Hear in Italy

Joy of Languages — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0200

_Learn how to use “with” in Italian to get around Italy, from ordering food and drink to booking places to stay. _

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Una margherita con funghi = A margherita with mushrooms
Un toast con prosciutto = A toasted sandwich with ham
Un hotel con parcheggio = A hotel with parking
Un appartamento con aria condizionata = An apartment with air conditioning
Un treno con cambio a Bologna = A train with a change in Bologna

222: Quiz time! Common Italian Phrases That Help You Connect with the Local

Joy of Languages — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0100

_These common Italian phrases go beyond polite basics like “buongiorno” and “grazie” so you can connect with Italians and have friendly, everyday conversations. _

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Today's Italian words:
Nessun problema = No problem
Grazie per l’aiuto = Thanks for the help
Davvero? = Really?
Volentieri = I’d love to
Scherzo = Just kidding

221: Italian Verb Potere: How to Use It When in Italy

Joy of Languages — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0100

The Italian verb “potere” means “can”, but it doesn’t always work the same way. Learn how to use it correctly and avoid common mistakes.

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Today's Italian words:
Posso? = Can I? / May I?
Possiamo andare = We can go
Puoi prenotare un tavolo per stasera = You can reserve a table for tonight (singular, informal)
Potete lasciare le valigie qui= You can leave your luggage here (plural)

220: How to Say Never in Italian (While Playing Two Truths and a Lie)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0100

_In this post, you’ll learn how to say never in Italian using mai, including how to use it in common expressions and the past tense. _

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Today's Italian words:
Non faccio mai colazione a casa = I never have (lit. “do”) breakfast at home
Non brindo mai con l’acqua = I never say cheers with water
Non vado mai in spiaggia in estate = I never go to the beach in summer

219: Some Vino, Some Pizza…How to Say Some in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0100

_“Some” comes up all the time in Italy, like when you’re shopping or ordering food. Learn how to say it in Italian with words like “del”, “dei”, “delle” and more. _

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Today's Italian words:
Degli stuzzichini = some snacks
Chiedo delle patatine, delle olive e dei taralli = I’ll ask for some potato chips, some olives and some taralli
Della pizza = some pizza
Dell’acqua = some water

218: Airport in Italian: Phrases You Need When Flying in Italy

Joy of Languages — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0100

_In this post, you’ll learn useful words and phrases for the airport in Italian. They’ll make it easier to ask for help and understand the Italian around you. _

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Today's Italian words:
Il gate è aperto = The gate is open
I posti = The seats
I bagagli = The luggage
Aereo = Plane

217: Amazing in Italian: How (and most importantly when) to say it

Joy of Languages — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0100

How do you say “amazing” in Italian? Here you’ll learn the best word to use, a few common alternatives, and tips on when Italians would actually use them.

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Today's Italian words:
Questo risotto è fantastico = This risotto is amazing
Questa focaccia è fantastica = This focaccia is amazing
Fantastico! - Amazing!
È fantastico - That’s (lit. it is) amazing

216: Valentine’s Day in Italian: Phrases and Italian Traditions

Joy of Languages — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0100

_In this post, you’ll learn how to talk about Valentine’s Day in Italian with useful words and phrases. You’ll also see the unique ways Italians celebrate it. _

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Today's Italian words:
Festeggiamo San Valentino = We celebrate Valentine’s Day
Non festeggiamo San Valentino = We don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day
Buon San Valentino = Happy Valentine’s Day
Regalare i fiori = To gift flowers
Regalare i cioccolatini = To gift little chocolates

215: Magari in Italian: What it Means and How to Use It

Joy of Languages — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0100

Find out what “magari” in Italian means and how to use it when travelling, with natural phrases Italians actually say.

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Today's Italian words:
Magari possiamo pranzare in quel ristorante sulla spiaggia = Maybe we can have lunch at that restaurant on the beach
Magari troviamo un tavolo comunque = Maybe we’ll find a table anyway
Magari c'è un tavolo per due = Maybe there’s a table for two

Essere VS stare: Two Verbs That Confuse a Lot of Learners

Joy of Languages — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0100

In Italian, there are two verbs that mean “to be”: essere and stare. When should you use each one? Find out in this simple guide!

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Today's Italian words:
Sono felice = I'm happy
Sono italiano = I'm Italian (m)
Sono alto = I'm tall (m)
Sono qui = I'm here
Sto bene = I’m well
Sto male = I’m not well, literally “I’m bad”
Sto meglio = I’m better
Stare con le persone = to spend time with people, literally “to stay with people”
Stare con la famiglia = to spend time with the family, literally “to stay with the family”
Stare zitto = to be quiet, to shut up
Stare fermo = to stay still
Stare attento = to pay attention, literally “to stay attentive”
Stare calmo = to stay calm

214: Without in Italian: How to Use Senza

Joy of Languages — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0100

Understand how to use "without" in Italian with practical phrases for everyday situations, like choosing hotels, getting transport and eating out.

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Today's Italian words:
Senza glutine = Without gluten
Senza carne = Without meat
Un volo senza scalo = A flight without a layover

3 Italian Ways to Say Please (and When to Use Them)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0100

Do Italians say please? Learn the 3 most authentic ways to be polite in Italian.

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Today's Italian words:
Per piacere = Please (lit. to please)
Per favore = Please (lit. for favour)
Sì, grazie! = Yes please! (in Italian, we don’t say "per favore" after "sì")
Due biglietti, per favore = Two tickets, please (lit. for favour)
Un cappuccino, per piacere = A cappuccino, please (lit. to please)
Può portare il conto? = Can you bring the bill?
Potrebbe portare il conto? = Could you bring the bill?

213: 3 Italian Words for Beautiful That Italians Actually Use

Joy of Languages — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0100

Here are 3 common Italian words for beautiful that Italians actually say. You’ll also learn how you can use them in useful phrases for getting around Italy.

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Today's Italian words:
Che bella giornata! = What a beautiful day!
Il Duomo è bellissimo = The cathedral is very beautiful
La pinacoteca è meravigliosa = The pinacoteca (art museum) is marvellous
Il Castello Sforzesco è stupendo = The Sforzesco castle is wonderful (lit. stupendous)

212: The Best Way to Learn Italian (In Our Humble Opinion)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0100

The best way to learn Italian doesn’t involve memorizing verb lists. Here are 7 effective techniques (in our humble opinion) to get better and better at Italian.

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Today's Italian words:
Vorrei uno spritz = I’d like a spritz
Ho una prenotazione = I have a reservation
Sono americano = I am American
Vivo in Canada = I live in Canada
Vivo in Inghliterra = I live in England

211: Italian Verb Sapere (To Know): When and How to Use It

Joy of Languages — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Learn how to use the Italian verb “sapere” in everyday situations, like asking for info or chatting with locals, plus the common mistakes to avoid.

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Today's Italian words:
Non lo so = I don’t know (lit. I don’t know it)
Sai dove siamo? = Do you know where we are?

So che siamo in centro = I know that we’re in the centre
Sai dov'è…? = Do you know where is…?

210: How to Say Happy New Year to Your Italian Friends

Joy of Languages — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Here are the most common phrases to say and reply to Happy New Year in Italian. You’ll also learn about some unique Italian New Year traditions.

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Today's words:
Buon anno = Happy New Year (lit. good year)
Buon anno nuovo = Happy New Year (lit. good year new)
Felice anno nuovo = Happy New Year (lit. happy year new)
Auguri = Best wishes

209: How to Talk About Your Famiglia in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Family is very important in Italy. Learn how to talk about family in Italian with key words and phrases, plus common mistakes to avoid.

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Today's Italian words:
Mia zia = My aunt
Mio zio = My uncle
Mia mamma = My mum
I miei nipoti = My nieces and nephews
Mia cugina = My cousin (female)

208: Italian Dialect Quiz: 5 Useful Phrases You Might Hear in Italy

Joy of Languages — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0100

They don’t just speak Italian in Italy, there are dialects too. Learn common words and phrases from Italian dialects to understand locals better.

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207: Dire: How to Use This Really Common Italian Verb

Joy of Languages — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Learn how to use the verb dire (to say, to tell) in the present, past, and future tense, plus common mistakes and useful phrases.

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Today's Italian words:
Dico = I say
Dici = You say
Dice = He/she says
Diciamo = We say
Diciamo che preferisco Firenze = Let’s say that I prefer Florence

206: Ordering Coffee in Italian: Tips for Your Next Trip to Italy

Joy of Languages — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0100

There are very specific types of coffee in Italy. Learn how to order coffee in Italian the Italian way, so you can avoid classic tourist mistakes.

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Today's Italian words:
Vorrei un caffè = I’d like an espresso
Un caffè macchiato = an espresso with a bit of milk (lit. “stained coffee)
Un caffè americano = an americano
Un latte macchiato = a hot milk with a bit of coffee (lit. stained milk)
Un caffè shakerato = a coffee, sugar and ice (lit. shaken coffee)

205: Italian Indefinite Articles: Un, Una, Uno, and Un’

Joy of Languages — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Italian indefinite articles (or words for “a” and “an”) can be tricky in Italian because there are four ways to say them. Here’s how to use each one.

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Today's Italian words:
Prendiamo un tagliere di formaggi? = Shall we order (lit. we take) a cheese board?
Prendiamo anche una focaccia e un’acqua frizzante? = Shall we also order (lit. we take) a focaccia and a sparkling water?
Prendo uno spritz = I’ll order (lit. I take) a spritz

204: Italian Verb Venire: Don’t Come to Italy Without It

Joy of Languages — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0100

The Italian verb venire (to come) pops up all the time in Italian. See how to use it in the present, past and future tenses.

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Today's Italian words:
Io e mia mamma veniamo in stazione = My mum and I are coming to the station
Ma viene anche mia sorella! = But my sister is also coming!
Ma se venite in macchina c'è traffico = But if you (plural) come by car there’s traffic
Vengo in metro: è comoda = I’m coming by metro: it’s convenient

203: Get Well Soon in Italian: 3 Friendly Phrases

Joy of Languages — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Learn how to say “get well soon” in Italian with these 3 friendly phrases. Perfect for showing care and connecting with Italians.

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Today's Italian words:
Rimettiti = Get well soon (lit. reput yourself)
Riprenditi = Get well soon (lit. get back yourself)
Riposati = Get well soon (lit. rest yourself)

202: Quiz: 7 Everyday Italian Words Most Tourists Don’t Understand

Joy of Languages — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0200

Some Italian words confuse tourists because they’re hard to translate. Find out the meanings of these 7 everyday, untranslatable Italian words and expressions.

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Today's Italian words:
Fare un giro = To go for a walk
Apericena = Drinks and snacks for dinner (lit. aperitif dinner)
Stuzzichini = Little snacks
Fare la scarpetta = To mop up food with bread (lit. to do the little shoe)
Boh = I don’t know
Buon lavoro = Have a good day at work (lit. good work)

Mamma mia, che caldo = My goodness (lit. my mother), how hot

201: So in Italian: There Are Actually 3 Ways to Say It!

Joy of Languages — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0200

There are actually 3 ways to say so in Italian: quindi, allora and così. Find out when you should use each one so your Italian can sound more natural.

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Today's Italian words:
Troppi turisti, quindi troppe file = Too many tourists, so too many lines
Così così = So so
Ok...allora il consiglio è... non andare a Venezia! = Ok, so the advice is, don’t go to Venice!
Può andare a Treviso, così vede Venezia in giornata = She can go to Treviso, so she can see Venice during the day

200: Fare, Andare, Venire: Italian Irregular Verbs You Need

Joy of Languages — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0200

_You need the Italian irregular verbs fare, andare and venire for all kinds of conversations. Learn their forms to use them correctly and avoid mistakes. _

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Today's Italian words:
Matteo, vieni un secondo? = Matteo, can you come here for a second? (lit. you come here a second)
Faccio una lista di idee… domani vengono Laura e John = I’m making a list of ideas…tomorrow Laura and John are coming.
Quindi, dove andiamo? = So, where are we going?

199: How Do You Say Yummy in Italian? (Hint: It’s Not Delizioso)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0200

_How do you say yummy in Italian? Learn the everyday, common expressions Italians use so you can join their food chats (and why you shouldn’t say delizioso). _

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Today's Italian words:
Buono = Yummy (lit. good, masculine)
Buona = Yummy (lit. good, feminine)
Che buono = Yummy (lit. how good, masculine)
Che buona = Yummy (lit. how good, feminine)
Buonissimo = Very yummy (lit. very good, masculine)
Buonissima = Very yummy (lit. very good, feminine)

198: Dare: How to Use This Important Italian Verb

Joy of Languages — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0200

Dare is one of the most common Italian words. Learn how to conjugate it in the present, past and future and how to use it in common Italian expressions.

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Today's Italian words:
Mi dai una mano? = Can you give me a hand?
Non danno il menù = They don’t give the menu
Se mi dai un minuto… = If you give me a minute…
Ti do l’indirizzo = I give you the address
Mi piace dare consigli sul cibo = I like to give food recommendations

Everyday Italian Phrases: The 6 You Need

Joy of Languages — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0200

What do you do every day? Here you’ll learn those routine Italian words and phrases you absolutely have to know!

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Today's Italian words:
Ogni giorno = Every day
Ogni giorno mi sveglio presto = Every day I wake up early
Sempre = Always
Spesso = Often
Di solito = Usually
A volte = Sometimes
Fare colazione = To have breakfast
Mai = Never
Alle nove = At nine

197: Good Luck in Italian: What to Say and How to Reply

Joy of Languages — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0200

_Italians have lots of fun ways to say and reply to “good luck” in Italian. Here, you’ll find out what they are so you can start using them in Italy. _

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Get the bonus materials for this episode: https://italian.joyoflanguages.com/podcast/good-luck-in-italian

Today's Italian words:
In bocca al lupo = Good luck (lit. into the wolf’s mouth)
Buona fortuna = Good luck
Crepi! = Thank you! (reply to in bocca al lupo, lit. may it die!)
In culo alla balena = Good luck (lit. in the whale’s butt)

196: Why You Can Understand Italian But Can't Speak It

Joy of Languages — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0200

_If you understand Italian but find it hard to speak, you’re not alone. Here are 5 common reasons and easy tips to help you get better at speaking Italian. _

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Get the bonus materials for this episode: https://italian.joyoflanguages.com/podcast/understand-italian-but-cant-speak-it

Today's Italian words:
Scusi, un minuto = Excuse me (formal), one minute
Provo in italiano = I’ll try in Italian
Tutto bene = All good
Ci vediamo = See you later

195: What phrases do you need for Italy? We asked our teachers

Joy of Languages — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0200

50 useful Italian words and phrases to know to get around Italy. From shopping and eating out to chatting and getting information.

Learn about our Online Italian School and get a free mini lesson every week: https://joyoflanguages.online/italian-school

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Get the bonus materials for this episode: https://italian.joyoflanguages.com/podcast/Italian-Words-and-Phrases

Today's Italian words:
C'è il Wi-fi qui? = Is there Wi-Fi here?
Do un'occhiata, grazie! = Just looking, thank you!
Scusi, è questa la fila per entrare? = Excuse me, is this the line to get in?
Quanto dista? = How far away is it?
Posso pagare con la carta? = Can I pay by card?
Ecco qui. = Here you go.

194: You’re (probably) using the wrong “excuse me” in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0200

Excuse me in Italian might seem simple, but there are actually four ways to say it. Here’s when and how to use each one, so you’ll always get it right in Italy.

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Today's Italian words:
Scusi, il conto per favore = Excuse me (formal), the bill please
Scusi, è libero? = Excuse me (formal), is it free?
Scusa Matteo, dove sono i biglietti? = Sorry Matteo, where are the tickets?
Scusate, siete in fila? = Excuse me (you plural), are you in the line?
Scusate, è questo il treno per Bologna? = Excuse me (you plural), is this the train for Bologna?

193: Am I Bad at Italian? We’ll Give You an Honest Answer

Joy of Languages — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0200

_Bad at Italian? Perfetto! Here's how being bad at Italian can actually help you, with some useful tips and practical phrases. _

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Today's Italian words:
Perché ti piace l’Italia? = Why do you like Italy?
Perché ho origini italiane = Because I have Italian origins
Perché mi piace la gente = Because I like the people
Posso provare in italiano? = Can I try in Italian?
Ha tempo? = Do you (formal) have time?
Hai tempo? = Do you (informal) have time?
Sto imparando = I’m learning
Sono principiante = I’m a beginner
Grazie per la pazienza = Thank you for your patience
Come si dice…? = How do you say…?
Non ricordo la parola per… = I don’t remember the word for…
La mia memoria! = My memory!

192: Italian Festivals: What to Know Before You Go

Joy of Languages — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0200

_Italian festivals are a great way to enjoy real Italian culture. Here are the best Italian festivals, plus some useful phrases to help you join in the fun. _

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Today's Italian words:
Vengo in Italia il prossimo weekend = I’m coming to Italy next weekend
Ci sono dei festival interessanti? = are there any interesting festivals?
Le sagre = Typical Italian Food Festivals
Un paesino = A small town
Il cibo locale = Local food

191: You in Italian: Formal vs. Informal Explained

Joy of Languages — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0200

_Learn the three forms of “you” in Italian and when to use each one, so you get the right tone every time you’re chatting with Italians. _

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Today's Italian words:
Hai una penna? = Do you (informal) have a pen?
Preferisci mangiare dentro o fuori? = Do you (informal) prefer to eat inside or outside?
Ha un sacchetto? = Do you (formal) have a bag?
Volete un dolce? = Do you (plural) want a dessert?
Preferite acqua naturale o frizzante? = Do you (plural) prefer still or sparkling water?
Cerca qualcosa in particolare? = Are you (formal) looking for something in particular?
Vuoi un gelato? = Do you (informal) want an ice-cream?

190: Do You Have to Read Books to Learn Italian? Yes and No.

Joy of Languages — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0200

_Is reading Italian books a good idea? We think so, if you pick the right ones. Here are 5 tips on what you should be reading in Italian. _

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Today's Italian words:
Leggono libri scritti per italiani = They read books written for Italians
Cercano tutte le parole = They look up all the words
Scelgono libri per bambini = They choose books for children
Leggono storie noiose = They choose boring stories

189: Everything You Need to Join a Birthday in Italy

Joy of Languages — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0200

How do you say “Happy birthday” in Italian? Learn the phrases Italians actually use, pronunciation tips, and 2 quite unique birthday traditions.

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Today's Italian words:
Buon compleanno! = Happy birthday
Tanti auguri! = Happy birthday (lit. many wishes)
Quando festeggiamo? = When are we celebrating?

188: How to Say and Use “Let’s Go” in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0200

There’s one simple way to say “let’s go” in Italian, but you’ll also want to know how to say (and use) the other expressions that Italians use all the time.

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Today's Italian words:
Andiamo al cinema! = Let’s go to the cinema!
Andiamo al museo! = Let’s go to the museum!
Andiamo a casa! = Let’s go home!
Andiamo a mangiare una pizza! = Let’s go eat a pizza!
Andiamo a vedere la piazza! = Let’s go see the square!

187: Italian Restaurant Phrases Most Tourists Don’t Understand

Joy of Languages — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0200

_What Italian restaurant phrases will you actually hear in Italy? Learn what waiters really say, plus some cultural tips. _

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Today's Italian words:
Avete prenotato? = Have you booked?
Arrivo subito = I’ll be right with you
Prego, di qua = Please this way
Ecco il menu = Here’s the menu
Porto qualcosa da bere intanto? = Can I get you something to drink in the meantime?
Ambiente o fredda? = Room temperature or cold?
Volete ordinare? = Do you want to order?

186: Have Fun in Italian: The Right (and Wrong) Way to Say It

Joy of Languages — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0200

How do you say have fun in Italian? Spoiler: you don’t even use the word have. Learn the right (and wrong) phrases to use instead

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Today's Italian words:
Buon divertimento = Have fun (lit. good fun)
Divertiti = Have fun (lit. enjoy yourself)
Divertitevi = Have fun (lit. enjoy yourselves)

How to Go Shopping in Italian: Beginner’s Guide

Joy of Languages — Tue, 27 May 2025 07:00:00 +0200

Planning on buying some lovely things in Italy? How about doing your shopping in Italian! Learn some useful phrases and tips so you can shop like a local.

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Revise numbers in Italian:
https://italian.joyoflanguages.com/podcast/how-to-count-20-italian
https://italian.joyoflanguages.com/podcast/how-to-count-100-italian

Today's Italian words:
fare la spesa = do the shopping (supermarkets, the grocery shop)
fare shopping = go shopping (clothes, gifts and everything non-food related)
quanto costa? = how much does it cost?
quanto costano? = how much do they cost?
le piace? = do you like it? (formal)
è bello! = it’s nice!
è economico = it’s cheap
grazie, ci penso = thanks, I’ll think about it
mi piace ma… = I like it but…
è un po’ costoso = it’s a bit expensive
è troppo piccolo / grande = it’s too small / big
posso provarlo? = can I try it on?
dove sono i camerini? = where are the fitting rooms?
posso pagare? = can I pay?
…in contanti - …in cash
…con la carta = …by card
un sacchetto / una busta / una sportina = a bag

185: Where in Italian: You’d Be Lost (Literally) Without It

Joy of Languages — Tue, 20 May 2025 07:00:00 +0200

You’ll need “where” in Italian to ask really useful questions. Here, you’ll see how to pronounce it the right way and use it in common phrases.

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Today's Italian words:
Dov’è il bagno? = Where’s the bathroom?
Dov’è la stazione? = Where’s the station?
Dove vivi? = Where do you live?
Di dove sei? = Where are you from?

Restaurant and Bar Phrases to order in Italy

Joy of Languages — Tue, 13 May 2025 07:00:00 +0200

Wouldn’t it be "fantastico" to walk into an Italian restaurant and place your order in perfect Italian? Here you’ll learn how to do that and more!

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Today's Italian words:
avete prenotato? = do you have a reservation? (lit. have you booked?)
posso prenotare un tavolo per due? = can I book a table for two?
siamo pronti = we're ready
vorrei una birra = I'd like a beer
vorrei un vino bianco = I’d like a white wine
un bicchiere di vino rosso = a glass of red wine
una bottiglia d’acqua gasata = a bottle of sparkling water
il conto, per favore = the bill, please
tutto perfetto! = everything’s perfect!
il locale = the bar, the place where we go for drinks in the evening

184: 3 most common ways to say Congratulations in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 06 May 2025 07:00:00 +0200

How do you say “congratulations” in Italian? Here you’ll find the most common phrases you can use right away to congratulate your Italian friends or relatives.

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Today's Italian words:
Congratulazioni per il tuo nuovo lavoro! = Congratulations on your new job!
Complimenti per il tuo italiano = Compliments/well done on your Italian
Complimenti, tutto buonissimo! = Congratulations/well done, all delicious!

182: What do little Italian words like allora and anche mean?

Joy of Languages — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0200

_You need Italian words like "allora" and "anche" in most everyday conversations. You'll see how they work so you can use them and speak more naturally. _

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Today's Italian words:
Per fare il tour prima devi prenotare = To do the tour, first you have to book
Vorrei una pizza come la tua = I’d like a pizza like yours
Prima vado in bagno = First I’ll go to the bathroom
Devo anche mandare un’email = I also have to send an email
Poi mi preparo = Then I’ll get ready
Allora… sono di Napoli, ma vivo a Roma = So… I’m from Naples, but I live in Rome
Vorrei un cappuccino. Anzi, due = I’d like a cappuccino. Actually, two
Parlo italiano e anche francese = I speak Italian and also French

181: The 3 Meanings of Si in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0200

_What does “si” mean in Italian? Learn its three meanings and how to use it in every day conversations. _

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Learn more about Italian reflexive verbs: https://italian.joyoflanguages.com/podcast/Italian-Reflexive-Verbs

Today's Italian words:
Cosa si fa questo weekend? = What does one do this weekend?
Come si chiama il ristorante? = What is the restaurant called?
Lì si mangia bene e si spende poco = There one eats well and one spends little
Così Brody si diverte e si rilassa = That way Brody can enjoy herself and relax

177: Question Words in Italian: The 8 You Need

Joy of Languages — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0100

_Learn key Italian question words like “dove”, “quando”, and more to help you get the info you need while traveling in Italy. _

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Today's Italian words:
Quand’è l’ultimo treno? = When is the last train?
Perché il supermercato è chiuso? = Why is the restaurant closed?
Che cosa c’è in questo piatto? = What is there in this dish?
Dov’è la stazione? = Where is the station?
Chi è la guida? = Who is the guide?
Quanto costa? = How much does it cost?
Quale treno va a Firenze?= Which train goes to Florence?

173: But in Italian: When to Use Ma, Però, and More

Joy of Languages — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Here’s how to use "but" in Italian with ma, però, and more! Learn the differences between ma and però, plus other common Italian expressions.

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Today's Italian words:
Roma è bella ma è troppo grande = Rome is beautiful but it’s too big
Questo ristorante è buono, ma un po’ caro = This restaurant is good, but a bit expensive
Leggo molto, però = I read a lot, though

172: I Love You in Italian: 7 Romantic Phrases

Joy of Languages — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Learn how to say “I love you” in Italian, including a common mistake to avoid. You'll also learn terms of endearment and how to reply.

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Today's Italian words:
Anch’io ti amo tanto = I love you too
Ciao amore, come stai? = Hello love, how are you?
Tesoro, ti adoro! = Darling, I love you

171: What on Earth are Italian Reflexive Verbs?

Joy of Languages — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0100

You need Italian reflexive verbs for many things. Like talking about your daily routine, feelings and even saying your name. You’ll learn what they are and how to use them.

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Today's Italian words:
Mi sveglio = I wake up (lit. myself I wake)
Mi alzo subito = I get up (lit. myself I rise) straight away
Mi vesto = I get dressed (lit. myself I dress)
Mi rilasso = I relax (lit. myself I relax)
Mi faccio un caffè = I make myself a coffee

170: Learn the Word for Cold in Italian (and Avoid this Mistake)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Learn how to say cold in Italian. You’ll see key phrases with the word cold, plus common mistakes to avoid.

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Today's Italian words:
Che freddo! = How cold
Hai freddo? = Are you cold?
Non fa freddo = It’s not cold
Muoio di freddo = I’m dying of cold

169: How to Say Nice to Meet You in Italian: Formal and Informal

Joy of Languages — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Learn how to say "nice to meet you" in Italian. You’ll see the formal and informal versions, plus how to reply if someone says it to you.

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Today's Italian words:
Piacere di conoscerti = Nice to meet you (informal)
Piacere di conoscerla = Nice to meet you (formal)
Piacere = Nice to meet you

168: Common Italian Words That Are Actually English

Joy of Languages — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0100

There are loads of Italian words that are actually English. See how they’re used in travel, tech, entertainment, and more, plus tips on how to pronounce them the Italian way.

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Today's Italian words:
Prenotiamo il tour? = Shall we book the tour?
Prendiamo un taxi? = Shall we take a taxi?
Usiamo il computer? = Shall we use the computer?
L’app non funziona = The app doesn’t work
Non ho la password del WiFi = I don’t have the WiFi password
Che stress! = How stressful!

167: Why in Italian: How to Say and Use It in Conversation

Joy of Languages — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Why in Italian is one simple word. Or you can learn a few extra really common ways to say why to make your Italian sound natural.

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Today's Italian words:
No, perché? = No, why?
Perché il pesce ha un sapore delicato = Because fish has a delicate flavor
Come mai non posso bere lo Spritz con la pizza? = How come I can’t drink spritz with pizza?
Perché è dolce = Because it’s sweet
E perché? = And why?

166: Learn Italian Fast: Your 3-Month Action Plan

Joy of Languages — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0100

Ready to get serious about your Italian? This structured plan will help you learn Italian fast and improve your conversation skills in just three months!

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Today's Italian words:
La routine = (the) routine
La pronuncia = (the) pronunciation
È tutto = That’s all (lit. “it’s all”)
Evvai! = Yey!
Ben fatto = Well done
Normale = Normal

165: How do you say Merry Christmas in Italian?

Joy of Languages — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0100

How do you wish “Merry Christmas” to your Italian family or friends? Learn it quickly in this mini Italian lesson!

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Today's Italian words:
Buon Natale = Merry Christmas
Buone feste = Happy holidays
Grazie, buon Natale anche a lei! = Thank you, Merry Christmas to you too! (formal)
Grazie, buon Natale anche a te! = Thank you, Merry Christmas to you, too! (informal)

164: Passato prossimo in Italian: how to use this past tense

Joy of Languages — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0100

The passato prossimo is the perfect tense for conversations with Italians. See how it’s formed and when to use it so you can talk about the past.

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Today's Italian words:
Sono andato al parco = I have gone to the park
Non ho preso il caffè = I haven’t had a coffee
Ho lavorato un po’ = I’ve worked a bit

163: How to swear in Italian without offending anyone

Joy of Languages — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0100

Learn the most common Italian Swear words that you won’t find in your textbook and how to use them (or not!) when talking to Italians.

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Today's Italian words:
Che due palle! = What a pain in the ass (lit. what 2 balls)
Sei incazzato? = Are you pissed (off)?
Merda! = Shit!
Che cazzo! = What the f*ck!

162: Body parts in Italian: here’s what you need to know

Joy of Languages — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0100

Here you’ll find a list of the body parts in Italian that you really need to know. It’s everything you need for the pharmacy, everyday expressions and chats with Italians.

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Today's Italian words:
Le spalle = Shoulders
La schiena = Back
Dare una mano = To give a hand
Occhio! = Watch out!

161: The most difficult Italian words you’re (probably) pronouncing wrong

Joy of Languages — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0100

Learn techniques to pronounce the most difficult Italian words. They’ll help you sound more natural and avoid making funny pronunciation mistakes!

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Today's Italian words:
Ghiaccio = Ice
Svegliare = To wake up
Aglio = Garlic
Cameriere = Waiter
Aereo = Plane

160: Andare (To go): Learn This Important Italian verb

Joy of Languages — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0100

"Andare" is used all the time in Italian—it’s hard to speak to Italians without it! Learn its present, past, and future tenses for everyday conversations.

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Today's Italian words:
Vado = I go
Vai = You go
Va = S/he goes
Andiamo = We go
Andate = You plural go
Vanno = They go
Vado al pub = I’m going to the pub
Andiamo a Roma = We’re going to Rome

159: 4 Easy Italian Songs that prove that learning Italian can be fun

Joy of Languages — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Here are 4 easy songs for learning Italian. They have great tunes, simple vocabulary and lots of repetition to make the words really stick.

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Today's Italian words:
I capelli = Hair
Le mani = Hands
I piedi = Feet
Volare = To fly
Cantare = To sing

158: The most important Italian irregular verbs: 17 you should know

Joy of Languages — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Learn essential Italian irregular verbs and how to use them in everyday conversations.

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Today's Italian words:
Ho un appuntamento = I have a meetup (literally: an appointment)
Cosa facciamo? = What shall we do?
Usciamo? = Shall we go out?
Vuoi stare a casa? = Do you want to stay at home?

157: Order your favorite pizza in Italian: the sentences you need

Joy of Languages — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0200

How do you order pizza in Italian? These are the essential phrases for ordering pizza the real Italian way, plus some surprising cultural tips. Buon appetito!

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Today's Italian words:
Prendo = I’ll have
Vorrei = I would like
Prosciutto cotto = (cooked) ham
Olive = Olives
Funghi = Mushrooms
Carciofini = Artichokes
Una pizza senza glutine = A gluten-free pizza

156: "The" in Italian: common mistakes nearly all students make

Joy of Languages — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Not sure how to use il, lo, la and other Italian definite articles? Don’t worry, here you’ll find everything you need to learn how to say “the” in Italian right.

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Today's Italian words:
Mi piace il jazz = I like jazz
Non mi piace il traffico = I don’t like traffic
Mi piace l’opera = I like opera
Mi piace l’italiano = I like Italian
Vorrei le tagliatelle = I’d like tagliatelle
Vorrei gli spaghetti = I’d like spaghetti

155: Prendere: why you need to know this Italian verb

Joy of Languages — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Learn how to use the Italian verb prendere for food, travel and common expressions. See its similarities to English and how to conjugate it in different tenses.

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Today's Italian words:
Prendo il treno = I take the train
Prendo un caffè = I have (lit. I take) a coffee
Hai preso tutto? = Have you taken everything?
Prendere freddo = Get cold

154: Learn to Say "From" in Italian: 2 easy prepositions you need to know!

Joy of Languages — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Learn to say “from" in Italian using da and di. You'll pick up useful conversation phrases and avoid the most common mistakes!

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Today's Italian words:
Parto da = I’m leaving from
Quanto ci vuole da qui? = How long does it take from here?
Lontano da = Far from
X chilometri da = X kilometers from
Diverso/a da = Different from
Da capo = From the start
Dal mio punto di vista = From my point of view
Da casa = From home
Da oggi in poi = From today onwards
Di dove sei? = Where are you from?

153: How to say thank you in Italian: the most useful phrases

Joy of Languages — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Learn the most useful ways to say thank you in Italian and how to pronounce them. It will really help you have warm and friendly conversations with Italians.

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Today's Italian words:
Grazie mille = Thank you very much
Grazie di cuore = My heartfelt thanks
Grazie di tutto = Thank you for everything
Grazie per il / la… = Thank for the…
Grazie, non dovevi = Thank you, you shouldn’t have
Grazie in anticipo = Thank you in advance

152: Understand Italians When They Speak Fast: Simple Tips

Joy of Languages — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Struggle to understand Italians when they speak fast? Learn 4 effective listening techniques that will help you follow everyday conversations.

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Today's Italian words:
Può ripetere? = Can you repeat? (formal)
Puoi ripetere? = Can you repeat? (informal)
Più piano, per favore = More slowly, please

151: 5 Common Italian Phrases… That Often Confuse Tourists!

Joy of Languages — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Italians say these 5 phrases every day, but tourists often find them confusing! Learning them will help you navigate Italy like a local.

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Today's Italian words:
Un attimo = One moment (un a…)
Un attimo solo = Just one moment (un a…)
Fredda o temperatura ambiente? = Cold or room temperature? (for water)
Come volete pagare? = How would you (all/both) like to pay?
Conto unico = Whole bill
Conto diviso = Divided bill (split evenly by the number of people)
Conto separato = Separate bill
Vuole un sacchetto? = Would you like a bag?
Convalidare il biglietto = Validate the ticket

150: How to say hot in Italian (and avoid an awkward mistake!)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Italian summers are hot, hot, hot! Learn how to say “it’s hot” in Italian and pick up some everyday local–sounding phrases to talk about the summer weather.

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Today's Italian words:
Fa caldo = It’s hot (lit. it does hot)
Fa molto caldo = It’s really hot (lit. it does really hot)
Fa caldissimo = It’s extremely hot (use –issimo!)
Che caldo = It’s so hot (lit. what hot/heat)
Mamma mia! = Goodness!
Ho caldo = I’m hot (lit. I have hot)
Si muore di caldo = We’re dying from the heat (lit. one dies of heat, figurative)
Quanti gradi ci sono? = How many degrees are there?
Ci sono 40 gradi = It’s 40 degrees (lit. there are 40 degrees)
Centigradi = Centigrade

149: Have a Good Day in Italian: Learn it in 2 Minutes!

Joy of Languages — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0200

How do you say “Have a Good Day” in Italian? Learn it quickly in this mini Italian lesson!

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Today's Italian words:
Buona giornata = Have a good day (lit. “good day”)
Buona serata = Have a good evening (lit. “good evening”)
Buongiorno = Hello/good day
Buonasera = Hello/good evening
Grazie, altrettanto! = Thank you, you too!

148: Bathroom in Italian: The Words You Really Need to Know!

Joy of Languages — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Where’s the bathroom? This might be the most important Italian phrase of them all! Learn how to say it and understand the reply.

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Today's Italian words:
Scusi, dov’è il bagno? = Excuse me, where’s the bathroom?
Scusi, dov’è la toilette? = Excuse me, where’s the bathroom? (French sounding word)
Di là = Over there
In fondo al corridoio = At the end of the corridor
A destra = To the right
A sinistra = To the left
Non c’è la carta igienica = There’s no toilet paper
È occupato = There’s someone in there / I’m in here (lit. “it’s occupied”)

147: Helpful Italian Words to Add to Your Travel List

Joy of Languages — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Off to Italy soon? These essential Italian words and expressions will help you get by and enjoy your trip like a local.

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Today's Italian words:
Il biglietto = The ticket
Fare il biglietto = To buy/book a ticket (lit. “do the ticket”)
L’aereo = The aeroplane
Prendere il treno = To take the train
Fare la fila/coda = To stand in line (lit. “do the line”)
Il passaporto = The passport
La valigia = The suitcase
La carta di credito = Credit card
Posso pagare con la carta? = Can I pay by card? (lit. with the card)

146: How Are You in Italian: Local Phrases You Should Know!

Joy of Languages — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Asking “how are you” in the right way is the perfect opener to any Italian conversation. Learn how to do it just like a local!

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Today's Italian words:
Come stai? = How are you (informal)
Come sta? = How are you (formal); How is he? How is she?
Come va? = How’s it going?
Tutto bene? = Everything ok?
Come vanno le cose? = How are things? (lit. How, they go, the things)
Che mi racconti? = What’s new with you? (lit. What, me, you tell)
Come va con… = How’s …. going?
Come va con il lavoro? = How’s work going?

145: How to say ok in Italian: 9 easy ways

Joy of Languages — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0200

How do you say ok in Italian? Learn the 9 most useful ways and avoid common mistakes that most learners make.

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Today's Italian words:
Va bene = Ok
Tutto ok?/Tutto bene? = All ok?
Non è male = It’s not bad
Niente di speciale = Nothing special

144: Learn Italian Pronunciation in 12 Minutes

Joy of Languages — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Improve your Italian pronunciation by learning these important sounds… in just a few minutes!

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Today's Italian words:
Gnocchi = Gnocchi
Lasagne = Lasagne
Bagno = Bathroom
Famiglia = Family
Bottiglia = Bottle
Voglio = I want
Mare = Sea
Bere = To drink
Burro = Butter
Arrivare = To arrive
Opera = Opera
Aereo = Aeroplane
Anno = Year (long double n)
Capelli = Hair (short single p)
Cappelli = Hats (long double p)

143: What’s The Best Way to Learn Italian? A Structured Plan

Joy of Languages — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0200

There are lots of ways to learn Italian, but which is best? This roadmap will help you avoid wasting time and start chatting to Italians sooner than you think!

Best Italian TV shows to learn Italian: https://joyoflanguages.com/posts/italian-tv-shows

Perfect Italian movies for intermediate learners: https://italian.joyoflanguages.com/podcast/italian-movies-learn-italian

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Today's Italian words:
Congratulazioni = Congratulations
Il caffè = (the) coffee
I tassisti = (the) taxi drivers
Attenzione = Beware / be careful (lit. attention)
Il vocabolario = Vocabulary
La grammatica = Grammar

142: The Italian Travel Phrases Tourists Nearly Always Get Wrong

Joy of Languages — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Are you making these tourist mistakes when you speak Italian? It’s OK, nearly everyone does! Learn how to avoid them in this mini lesson.

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Today's Italian words:
Nessun problema = No problem
Non c’è problema = No problem (lit. there is no problem)
Fare una foto = To take a photo (lit. to do a photo)
Ci puoi fare una foto? = Can you take a photo of us? (informal)
Ci può fare una foto? = Can you take a photo of us (formal)
Siamo in due = There are two of us
Uno spritz = A spritz
Uno studente = A student
Uno scontrino = A receipt
Prendo uno spritz = I’ll have a spritz (lit. “I take a spritz”)
Fa caldo = It’s hot

141: Italian for UNDERSTAND (and One Time You Shouldn’t Say It!)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 28 May 2024 07:00:00 +0200

What’s Italian for “Understand”? Learning this essential Italian word will help you communicate super smoothly with the locals!

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Today's Italian words:
Non ho capito = I didn’t understand
Ho capito = I understood
Capisco l’italiano = I understand Italian
Capisco un po’ di italiano = I understand a bit of Italian
Piano, per favore = Slowly, please
Può ripetere, per favore? = Can you repeat, please? (formal)
Puoi ripetere, per favore? = Can you repeat, please? (informal)

140: Italian Grandma or Grandpa? How to Talk About Your Origins in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 21 May 2024 07:00:00 +0200

If you have an Italian grandma or grandpa, learning how to talk about your family in Italian will help you connect with your heritage on a deeper level.

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Today's Italian words:
Mia nonna era di… = My grandmother was from… (+ town)
Mio nonno era di… = My grandfather was from… (+ town)
I miei nonni erano di… = My grandparents were from (+ town)
Era di Roma = S/he was from Rome
Erano di Napoli = They were from Naples
Erano calabresi = They were Calabrian
I miei parenti = My relatives
I miei genitori = My parents
I miei cugini = My cousins

139: Say Goodbye in Italian: The Perfect Way For Any Situation!

Joy of Languages — Tue, 14 May 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Find the perfect way to say goodbye in Italian, from the casual “ciao” to the formal “arrivederci” and everything in between. With pronunciation and cultural tips!

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Today's Italian words:
Ciao = Bye (informal)
Arrivederci = Goodbye (formal)
Ci sentiamo = Speak soon (lit. each other we hear)
Ci sentiamo dopo = Speak to you later (lit. each other we hear later)
Buona serata! = Have a nice evening
A presto = See you soon (lit. till soon)
A dopo = See you later (lit. till later)
A domani = See you tomorrow (lit. till tomorrow)
Ti scrivo dopo = I’ll send you a message later (lit. to you, I write later)

138: How to Learn Italian Faster, According to Science (And Our Students!)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 07 May 2024 07:00:00 +0200

You’re learning Italian, but it’s going slower than you’d hoped? These unconventional tips will help you speed things up!

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Today's Italian words:
Impossibile = Impossible
Importante = Important
Normale = Normal
Errore = Mistake
Il vocabolario = (the) vocabulary
La grammatica = (the) grammar
La pronuncia = (the) pronunciation
Anno = Year (remember to make the “n” long!)
Sono di New York = I’m from New York
E tu? Di dove sei? = And you? Where are you from? (informal)

137: Is Learning Italian Hard? 7 Excuses That Might Be Holding You Back

Joy of Languages — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Is learning Italian hard? Maybe not as hard as you think! But these 7 excuses might be keeping you stuck – learn how to overcome them and start speaking Italian.

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Today's Italian words:
Difficile = difficult
Facile = easy
Impossibile = impossible
Sto imparando l’italiano = I’m learning Italian
Utile = useful
Non ho tempo! = I don’t have time!

136: Quiz Time! Do You Know These Italian Phrases for Travel?

Joy of Languages — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Planning a trip to Italy? Or just want to learn some common Italian phrases? Get by and impress Italians with these 131 ready-to-use expressions!

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Today's Italian words:
Buongiorno = Hello (formal, lit. “good day”)
Vorrei = I’d like
Vorrei un cappuccino, grazie = I’d like a cappuccino, thank you
Vorrei pagare, per favore = I’d like to pay please
Dov’è… = Where is…
La metro = The subway
Dov’è la metro? = Where’s the subway?
Un biglietto = A ticket
Vorrei un biglietto = I’d like a ticket
Quanto costa? = How much does it cost?
Un tavolo per tre = A table for three
Una birra = A beer
Lo stesso = The same (as in “I’ll have the same”)
Il conto, per favore = The bill please
Posso pagare? = Can I pay?
Posso pagare con la carta? = Can I pay by card?
Prendiamo un taxi = Let’s take a taxi

135: 8 Easy Ways to Sound Like a Local in Italy

Joy of Languages — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Going to Italy soon? These 8 basic Italian phrases will help you do lots of practical things and speak like a local!

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Today's Italian words:
Prendo un caffè = I’ll have a coffee (lit. I take a coffee)
Prendo una margherita = I’ll have a margherita (lit. I take a margherita)
Lo stesso = The same
Prendo lo stesso = I’ll have the same (lit. I take the same)
Questo = This
Quello = That
Salve = Hello (anytime of day, semi-formal and formal)
Sono… = I’m
Sono Matteo = I’m Matteo
E tu? = And you?
Permesso! = Can I move past? / Can I come in? (lit. permission)
Posso? = May I? (lit. I can)

134: How to Talk To Anyone in Italy: Taxi Drivers, Baristas and More!

Joy of Languages — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0200

These Italian phrases will help you talk to Italians and get insider tips on where to go, what to do and what to eat. Use them to make your next trip special!

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Today's Italian words:
Vive in zona? = Do you live in the area (formal)
Quali sono i piatti tipici? = What are the typical dishes? (lit. “which”)
Mi può consigliare un ristorante? = Can you recommend a restaurant? (formal)
Mi può consigliare un piatto? = Can you recommend a dish? (formal)
Mi può consigliare un vino? = Can you recommend a wine? (formal)

133: Hello In Italian. Are you using it right?

Joy of Languages — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0200

Hello in Italian is “ciao”. But do you know how to use it the right way? Learn how to say hello in Italian and feel at ease when greeting people in Italy.

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Today's Italian words:
Pronto? = Hello? (on the telephone)
Buondì, vuoi un caffè? = Good morning/good day, do you want a coffee?
Uè, ciao! Sono al mercato = Hey, hello! I’m at the market
Salve, buongiorno. Avete le arance? = Hello, good morning. Do you have oranges?

132: Fare: Do you Know these Everyday Phrases?

Joy of Languages — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0100

Vacations, weather, and your hobbies… you’ll need FARE to talk about these things and more! Learn how to use this important Italian verb.

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Today's Italian words:
Fa caldo = It’s hot (lit. it does heat)
Fa freddo = It’s cold (lit. it does cold)
Fare le vacanze = To take a vacation (lit. to do the vacations)
Fare un giro = To go for a stroll
Fare giardinaggio = To garden
Fare un errore = To make a mistake
Faccio un giro = I’m going for a stroll
Che fate? = What are you doing? (plural you)
In estate fa caldo in Italia = In summer it’s hot in Italy (lit. it does heat)

131: BELLO! How to Use This Italian Word

Joy of Languages — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0100

How do you say ‘beautiful’ in Italian? Get tips on how to use this important word like a local!

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Today's Italian words:
Domani c’è bello = The weather’s nice tomorrow
Una bella giornata = A nice day; a beautiful day
Bella idea! = Nice idea, great idea
Bello! = Cool/awesome (as a reaction)
Il tramonto è bellissimo = The sunset is stunning/really beautiful
Il nostro hotel è molto bello = Our hotel is really nice (lit. “really beautiful”)

130: 11 Best Apps to Learn Italian (These Actually Work!)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0100

With so many apps available to learn Italian... which work best? And how can you use them to start speaking Italian? Find out here!

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Today's Italian words:
L’app = The app
L’applicazione = The application
Possibile = Possible
Utile = Useful
Divertente = Fun
Una conversazione = A conversation
Un contorno = A side dish

129: Years in Italian: Are You Saying Them Right?

Joy of Languages — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0100

Master years in Italian with this really clear guide… and pick up a little Italian history to impress your friends!

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Today's Italian words:
Millenovecentoottantadue = 1982 (Matteo’s birth year)
Millenovecentoquarantasei = 1946 (women’s right to vote)
Mille = 1000
Duemila = 2000
Il duemilasei è stato un anno fantastico! = (the) 2006 was a fantastic year!
L’Italia è cambiata dopo il sessantotto = Italy changed after (the) ‘68
Negli anni Settanta = In the seventies
Negli anni Duemila = In the two thousands
Il governo Berlusconi è iniziato negli anni Novanta = The Berlusconi government started in the 90s
Di che anno sei? = “From what year are you from?” Sneaky way to ask someone’s age!

128: Stare: The Italian Verb You Need to Know!

Joy of Languages — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0100

When should you use the verb stare? It can feel confusing at first – let’s clear things up so you can use it with confidence in conversation!

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Today's Italian words:
Come stai? = How are you? (lit. how you stay?)
I Sardi stanno bene = Sardinians are healthy/well (lit. The Sardinians stay well)
Cosa stai bevendo? = What are you drinking?
Stiamo per mangiare = We’re about to eat
Mi piace stare al mare = I like spending time at the seaside (lit. stay at the sea)
Lascia stare! = Let it go; forget about it
Stare a tavola = To spend time at the dinner table (lit. stay at table)

127: Goodnight and Good Evening in Italian: Are you saying them right?

Joy of Languages — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0100

Learn how to greet Italians at night and in the evening and avoid these common learner mistakes!

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Today's Italian words:
Dormi bene, buonanotte! = Sleep well, goodnight!
Torno all’hotel, buonanotte! = I’m going to the hotel, goodnight!
Ieri sera = Last night (lit. yesterday evening)
Ieri sera ho mangiato una pizza buonissima! = Yesterday evening I ate a delicious pizza!
Stasera = Tonight (lit. this evening)
Notte! = Night!

126: Così: How To Say ‘So’ (and much more) in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0100

How do you say “so” in Italian? Most of the time, you can say “così”, a handy word for lots of different situations. Learn how to use it in this lesson.

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Today's Italian words:
Così piccante = so spicy
Così divertente = so fun
Il peperoncino è così piccante! = the chilli is so spicy!
Imparare l’italiano è così divertente! = learning Italian is so fun!
La burocrazia italiana è così complicata = Italian bureaucracy is so complicated
Perché impari l’italiano? = why are you learning Italian?
Così posso visitare posti meno turistici = so that I can visit less touristy places
Così posso parlare con i miei cugini = so that I can talk with my cousins
Inserisci la carta, così = insert the card, like so
Così? = like this?
Sì, così! = ues, like that!
Com’è il caffè? – Mm, così così. = how’s the coffee? – Hmm, so-so

125: 3 Perfect Italian Movies to Learn Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 17:00:00 +0100

These Italian movies are so good, you’ll forget you’re studying! Choose your favourites from dramas, classics and comedies, with tips on how to watch.

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Today's Italian words:
La vita davanti a sé = The life ahead (of oneself)
18 regali = 18 presents
Pane e tulipani = Bread and tulips

124: From ‘Gnocchi’ to ‘Bruschetta’: Learn to Pronounce an Italian Menu

Joy of Languages — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0100

Gnocchi, bruschetta, tagliatelle… Italian dishes are easier to eat than pronounce! Impress your friends by learning to pronounce these Italian menu favourites.

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Today's Italian words:
Bruschetta = A starter of toasted bread with toppings (remember the hard CH sound!)
Tagliatelle = A type of fresh egg pasta in thick strips (contains the GLI sound)
Gnocchi = Italian potato dumplings (starts with the GN sound)
Spaghetti = A very famous type of long pasta (with a hard GH and double TT)
Panna cotta = A dessert which means “cooked cream” (contains a double NN and TT)
Arancini = Sicilian rice balls (the R sounds a lot like the t in the American “matter”)

123: Avere: How To Use This Italian Verb (and Mistakes To Avoid)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0100

Avere is one of the most important verbs in Italian. Learn to use it in conversation, and avoid these common mistakes!

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Today's Italian words:
Ho una prenotazione = I have a reservation
Hai tempo? = Do you have time?
Ho un’idea = I have an idea
Hanno la birra = They have (the) beer
Abbiamo una bottiglia di vino = We have a bottle of wine
Ho = I have
Hai = You have
Ha = S/he has; you have (plural)
Abbiamo = We have
Avete = You have (plural)
Hanno = They have
Avevamo = We had

122: The Many Meanings of Prego

Joy of Languages — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0100

“Prego” in Italian often means “you’re welcome”. But did you know that it has 7 other meanings that are really useful for travel? Learn them here!

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Today's Italian words:
Grazie! – Prego! = Thank you! – You’re welcome!
Prego, buona giornata! = After you, have a nice day (holding the door open)
Posso assaggiare? – Prego! = Can I taste (it)? – Certainly!
Prego? = Pardon?

121: How to Speak Italian (Even if You’re Not Confident Yet!)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0100

Get practical tips on how to start speaking Italian. In this friendly guide, you’ll learn from real people who’ve done it, despite the jitters!

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While we didn’t share specific phrases in this lesson, here are a few you can use with Italians to encourage them to help you practise speaking:
Sto imparando l’italiano = I’m learning Italian
Preferisco l’italiano, vorrei praticare = I prefer Italian, I’d like to practise
Provo in italiano, va bene? Mi aiuta? = I’ll try in Italian, is that OK? Will you help me?
Grazie per la pazienza! = Thanks for your patience
Grazie per l’aiuto! = Thanks for your help
Grazie per la lezione! = Thanks for the lesson

120: Insider Travel Tips: Hidden Gems in Italy Shared by Our Italian Teachers

Joy of Languages — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0100

Where do Italians vacation? Avoid the typical tourist traps and experience the real Italy with tips from our Italian teachers.

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Today's Italian words:
Il mio posto preferito è… = My favourite place is…
Un’isola = An island
Il mare è stupendo = The sea is stupendous
Il paese è molto vivace = The town is very lively
Al tramonto = At sunset
È una città piccola e tranquilla = It’s a small and tranquil city
Una vista stupenda = A stupendous view
Il cibo è buonissimo! = The food is really delicious!
Una spiaggia molto grande = A very big beach

119: Salute! A guide to saying “cheers” in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0100

How do you say “cheers” in Italian? Learn the two main ways, plus a few important rules so you can toast like a local!

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Today's Italian words:
Un brindisi! = A toast!
Salute! = “Cheers” for any occasion (lit. “health”)
Cin cin! = “Cheers” for everyday situations with friends and family
Guardami negli occhi = Look me in the eyes
Non con il bicchiere di plastica = Not with the plastic glass

118: Al, del, sul... Italian Articulated Prepositions Made Simple

Joy of Languages — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0100

Not sure how to use those little words like “al”, “del” and “sul” in Italian? Learn how in this simple guide!

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Today's Italian words:
Siamo andati al supermercato = we went to the supermarket
Alla cassa = at the till
Forse è nella valigia = maybe it’s in the suitcase
Nel frigo = in the refrigerator
È sul tavolo = it’s on the table

117: How to Say and Write Dates in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0100

Find yourself fumbling over dates in Italian? Learn how to say and write them with confidence, and avoid the common mistakes that trip up most learners.

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Today's Italian words:
Il primo giugno = June 1st
Il 12 novembre (il dodici novembre) = November 12th
L’11 dicembre (l’undici dicembre) = December 11th
Il 29 giugno (il ventinove giugno) = June 29th
Il 5 ottobre (il cinque ottobre) = October 5th

116: Months of the Year in Italian: A Quick and Easy Lesson

Joy of Languages — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0100

Want to learn the months of the year in Italian fast? We’ll help you remember these important Italian words and avoid the most common learner mistakes.

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Today's Italian words:
gennaio = January
febbraio = February
marzo = March
aprile = April
maggio = May
giugno = June
luglio = July
agosto = August
settembre = September
ottobre = October
novembre= November
dicembre = December

115: Sì! 4 common ways to say “yes” in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0100

Yes, in Italian is “sì”. But did you know that Italians have other ways to say yes? These 5 everyday expressions will help you fit in with the locals!

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Today's Italian words:
Va bene! = OK (lit. it goes well)
Volentieri! = Gladly, with pleasure
Certo = Sure, of course (lit. certain)
Ordiniamo una pizza? Va bene! = Shall we order a pizza? OK!
D’accordo = Yes, agreed, alright (lit. in agreement)
Facciamo una passeggiata? Volentieri! = Shall we go for a walk? Gladly!

114: Altrettanto: The Easiest Way To Reply in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0100

Not sure how to respond in Italian? Use ‘altrettanto’ to have an instant reply in these everyday situations!

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Today's Italian words:
Altrettanto = You too / same to you / likewise
Buona giornata = Have a good day
Buona serata = Have a good evening
Buona domenica = Have a good Sunday!
Buon weekend = Have a good weekend
Buon viaggio = Have a good trip
Buon appetito = Enjoy your meal
Divertiti = Have fun
Piacere = Nice to meet you
Anche a te = You too (informal)
Anche a voi = You too (plural)
Anche a Lei = You too (formal)

113: Italian Prepositions Made Easy: Tips and Tricks for Learners

Joy of Languages — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Confused by Italian prepositions? Don't worry! Here you’ll learn them in a simple way, so you can feel confident using them in conversation with Italians.

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Today's Italian words:
Un piatto di pasta = A plate of pasta
Sono di San Francisco = I’m from San Francisco (lit. “of” San Francisco)
Il nostro hotel è a Roma = Our hotel is in Rome (lit. “at” Rome)
Il ristorante è lontano da qui? = Is the restaurant far from here?
Questo treno va da Milano a Napoli = This train goes from Milan to Naples
Aspettiamo da 20 minuti = We’ve been waiting for 20 minutes (lit. we wait “from” 20 minutes)
Andiamo in macchina = We’re going by car (lit. “in” car)
Un tavolo per due = A table for two
Vado al mercato per comprare la frutta = I’m going to the market (in order) to buy fruit
È sul menù = It’s on the menu
Una guida sulla città = A guide about the city (lit. “on” the city)
Tra due città = Between two cities
Il supermercato chiude tra 30 minuti = The supermarket closes in 30 minutes (lit. “between”)

112: 3 Essential Ways to say Please in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Do Italians say please? Learn the 3 most authentic ways to be polite in Italian.

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111: 10 Italian Sayings with Numbers That Will Impress Your Friends

Joy of Languages — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Learn these common Italian sayings with numbers and impress everyone with your knowledge of colloquial Italian!

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Today's Italian words:
A due passi = A short distance away (lit. at two steps)
Su due piedi = Off the top of your head (lit. on two feet)
Due risate = A good laugh (lit. two laughs)
Fare quattro chiacchiere = Have a chat (lit. do four chats)
Che due palle = This sucks (lit. what two balls
Che due scatole = What a hassle (lit. what two boxes)
Fare due passi = Take a short walk (lit. do two steps)
In due parole = In a nutshell (lit. in two words)
Non c’è due senza tre = Things come in threes (lit. there is no two without three)
Quattro gatti = A handful of people (lit. four cats)
Dare il cinque = Give a high five (lit. give the five)

110: The 4 Meanings of Allora in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Feel like Italians say allora all the time, but not exactly sure what it means? Read on to learn the 4 situations when you should be using it - and when you shouldn’t!

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Today's Italian words:
Allora… cosa facciamo? = So… what shall we do?
Allora… è domenica… = Well… it’s Sunday…
Fa caldo, allora andiamo in spiaggia = It’s hot, so then we’ll go to the beach
La spiaggia = The beach
Fa caldo = It’s hot (lit: it makes heat)
Un gelato = An ice-cream
Allora erano più buoni = Back then they were tastier

109: Everyday Italian Phrases to Describe Your Routine

Joy of Languages — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0200

What do you do every day? Here you’ll learn those routine Italian words and phrases you absolutely have to know!

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108: Learn Italian Numbers 1- 100… And Avoid These Common Mistakes!

Joy of Languages — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Knowing your Italian numbers is an essential skill for beginners. Learn and remember them easily with this guide.

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Today's Italian words:
uno, due, tre, quattro, cinque, sei, sette, otto, nove, dieci = 1 - 10
undici, dodici, tredici, quattordici, quindici, sedici = 11 - 16
diciassette, diciotto, diciannove = 17 - 19
venti = 20
ventuno = 21
ventidue, ventitre, ventiquattro, venticinque, ventisei, ventisette = 22 - 27
ventotto = 28
ventinove = 29
trenta = 30
quaranta = 40
cinquanta = 50
sessanta = 60
settanta = 70
ottanta = 80
novanta = 90
cento = 100

107: Italian Restaurant Etiquette: How to Order Like a Local

Joy of Languages — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Learn how to order food in Italian and avoid the common mistakes most people make in Italian restaurants. You’ll be ordering like a local in no time!

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Today's Italian words:
Prendo il pollo = I’ll have the chicken (lit. ‘I take the chicken’)
Prendo questo = I’ll have this (lit. ‘I take this’)
Gli antipasti = The starters
I primi = The first course (lit. ‘the firsts’)
I secondi = The first course (lit. ‘the seconds’)
La mancia = The tip
Un digestivo = A liquor that Italians drink after dinner
Un amaro = An Italian herbal liquor

106: Nervous to Speak Italian? Here’s what to do

Joy of Languages — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0200

If you’re nervous to speak Italian don’t worry: you’re not alone! Here you’ll learn how to overcome these nerves and start speaking Italian with confidence.

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Today's Italian words:
Come si dice = How do you say…?
Inglese o italiano? = English or Italian?
Italiano lento, per favore! = Slow Italian, please!
Preferisco l’italiano, vorrei praticare = I prefer Italian, I’d like to practise
Sto imparando = I’m learning
Grazie per la pazienza = Thanks for your patience

105: How to Learn Italian - 3 Tips to Learn Quickly and Start Speaking

Joy of Languages — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Ready to learn Italian? These 3 tips will help you learn quickly and start speaking the language asap. Let’s get started!

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Today's Italian words:
Provo in italiano, va bene? = I’ll try in Italian, is that ok?
Può aiutarmi? = Can you help me?
Provo in italiano, va bene? Può aiutarmi? = I’ll try in Italian, is that ok? Can you help me?
Può correggermi? = Can you correct me?
Quando faccio un errore = When I make a mistake
Può correggermi quando faccio un errore? = Can you correct me when I make a mistake?
Penna = Pen (Avoid Katie’s mistake! Don’t say ‘pene’ which means ‘penis’ 😅)
Vorrei un caffè = I’d like a coffee
Vorrei un biglietto = I’d like a ticket
Vorrei pagare = I’d like to pay
Vorrei una pizza = I’d like a pizza

104: How to Pronounce August in Italian (+ Summer Announcement)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Can you say August in Italian? You might be making a mistake without realising it! Learn how to pronounce it like an Italian.

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Today's Italian words:
agosto = August
in agosto fa caldo = in August, it’s hot (lit. at August, it ‘does’ hot)
non lavoro in agosto = I don’t work in August (lit. at August)
la spiaggia = the beach

103: 5 Italian TV shows we can’t stop watching

Joy of Languages — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Dive into the best of Italian TV with this must-watch list of five shows. And binge-watch your way to better Italian!

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Discover more Italian TV shows and get tips on how use them to learn Italian (even if you struggle to follow!): https://italian.joyoflanguages.com/posts/italian-tv-shows

Today's Italian words:
una serie = a series
un drama = a drama
un documentario = a documentary
una commedia = a comedy
la RAI = the Italian national broadcasting service

102: What’s Italian for Hotel? (+ 10 Travel Words You Need to Know)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Wondering how to say “hotel” in Italian? Read on to find out, and learn 10 more essential Italian travel words while you’re at it!

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Today's Italian words:
l’hotel = hotel
l’albergo = the hotel
il costume = swimming costume
andare = to go
la montagna = mountain
la piscina = swimming pool
la camera / la stanza = the room
di lusso = luxury
la colazione = breakfast
partire = to leave
il bed and breakfast = the bed and breakfast
la chiave = the key
albergo di lusso = a luxury hotel
il check-in / il check-out = check-in / check-out
il wi-fi = the wifi
la password = the password
l’ascensore = the elevator / lift
l’aria condizionata = the air-conditioning

101: Master the Pronunciation of EURO in Italian: Tips and Tricks

Joy of Languages — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Are you struggling with the pronunciation of "euro" in Italian? Look no further! Get tips and tricks to say it like a native.

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Today's Italian words:
un euro = one euro
il caffè costa un euro e dieci = the coffee costs €1.10
abbiamo pagato un euro e dieci = we paid €1.10
due euro = two euros
tre euro = three euros
venti euro = twenty euros

100: What’s Italian for “bon voyage”?

Joy of Languages — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Ever wondered what to say in Italian for “bon voyage”? Learn exactly how to wish someone a good trip in Italian, as well as other useful phrases for travelling.

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Today's Italian words:
arrivare = to arrive
prima di = before
cucinare = to cook
mangiare = to eat
partire = to leave
buon viaggio = bon voyage / have a good trip
buon appetito = bon appetit / enjoy your meal
buon rientro = good return / have a good return trip

99: How to Go Shopping in Italian: Beginner’s Guide

Joy of Languages — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Planning on buying some lovely things in Italy? How about doing your shopping in Italian! Learn some useful phrases and tips so you can shop like a local.

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Revise numbers in Italian:
https://italian.joyoflanguages.com/podcast/how-to-count-20-italian
https://italian.joyoflanguages.com/podcast/how-to-count-100-italian

98: Italian for Tourists: 31 Phrases for Travel and Accommodation

Joy of Languages — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Do you know how to get around in Italian, or what to say when you get to your hotel? No more awkward English - read on and learn how to do it all in Italian!

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Today's Italian words:
Dov’è…? = where is…?
Il centro = the centre
La stazione = the station
Il treno = the train
L’autobus = the bus
La metro = the metro
La fermata = the stop
Il biglietto = the ticket
La biglietteria = the ticket office
Il tabaccaio = the newsagents
Andata/sola andata = one way (ticket)
Andata e ritorno = return (ticket)
Benvenuti! = welcome!
Firmi qui = sign here
La colazione = the breakfast
La camera = the room
La sua chiave = your key
C’è il wifi? = is there wifi?
Qual è la password? = what’s the password?
Non si connette = it doesn’t connect
Non funziona = it doesn’t work

97: How to order in Italian: Restaurant and Bar Phrases

Joy of Languages — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Wouldn’t it be great to walk into an Italian restaurant and place your order in perfect Italian? Here you’ll learn how to do that and more!

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96: Don’t Be Rude! How to Meet, Greet and Be Polite in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 30 May 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Want to make a good impression when you meet Italians? Learn the do’s and don'ts when it comes to greeting and being polite in Italian.

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Today's Italian words:
un caffè, per favore = a coffee, please
grazie = thank you
prego = you're welcome
scusi = excuse me / sorry
buongiorno = hello (during the day)
buonasera = hello (during the evening)
salve = hello (any time of day)
ciao = hi (informal)
sono Katie = I'm Katie
come si chiama? = what's your name? (formal)
piacere = pleased to meet you
buona giornata = have a good day
buona serata = have a good evening
arrivederci = good bye

95: 8 Basic Phrases to Get Unstuck in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 23 May 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Didn’t understand? Lost for words? Just keep getting stuck when you start speaking Italian? These 8 basic phrases will help you keep the conversation flowing.

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Today's Italian words:
Parla inglese? = do you speak English?
Possiamo parlare in italiano? = can we speak in Italian?
Vorrei imparare = I’d like to learn
Scusi, non ho capito = sorry, I didn’t understand
Può ripetere, per favore? = can you repeat, please?
Un po' = a little
No, mi dispiace = no, sorry
Più piano, per favore = more slowly, please.
Come si dice...? = how do you say...?
Non parlo bene… ma ci provo! = I don’t speak well… but I’ll try!
Posso ordinare? = can I order?
Dov’è il bagno? = where’s the bathroom?

94: What's the Best Response to Grazie? 7 Common Ways to Reply

Joy of Languages — Tue, 09 May 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Grazie! Hmm... now what do you say? Learn 7 Italian phrases you can use in response to grazie.

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Today's Italian words:
Grazie mille = thanks a lot
Prego = you're welcome
Di niente = no problem (lit. Of nothing)
Figurati = no worries (informal version)
Si figuri = no worries (formal version)
Non c'è di che = no problem (there's no need)
E di che / Ma di che = no problem (there's no need)
Grazie a te = thanks to you (informal version)
Grazie a lei = thanks to you (formal version)
A te = same to you
Tranquillo = no worries
Ci mancherebbe = not at all

93: Pronunciation of grazie; the most mispronounced word in Italian?

Joy of Languages — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0200

The mistake you might not realise you’re making! Is grazie the word Italian learners mispronounce the most?

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Today's Italian words:
Vuoi un caffè? = do you want a coffee?
Sì, grazie = yes, thank you
No, grazie = no, thank you
Ecco il tuo caffè = here’s your coffee
Grazie mille = thanks so much
Zucchero = sugar
Amaro = bitter

92: Subject Pronouns in Italian: How to Use ‘em Like a Native!

Joy of Languages — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Curious to know when you use Italian subject pronouns, like io and tu? Most of the time, you don’t! But read on to find out how to use them like an Italian.

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Today's Italian words:
Hai ragione = you're right.
Io cucino, tu pulisci = I'll cook, you clean.
Pulisco ogni giorno = I clean every day.
Tu non pulisci ogni giorno, io pulisco ogni giorno = you don’t clean every day, I clean every day.

91: 4 Ways to Use ESSERE in Italian (that might surprise you!)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0200

Think you know “essere” in Italian? Usually it means “to be” and is similar to English. But there’s a handful of phrases where it behaves differently!

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Today's Italian words:
Sono raffreddato= I have a cold (lit. I am cooled. masculine)
Sono raffreddata= I have a cold (lit. I am cooled. feminine)
Sono portato= I have a talent for it (masculine)
Sono portata= I have a talent for it (feminine)
Non sono portato= I don’t have a talent for it (masculine)
Non sono portata= I don’t have a talent for it (feminine)
Sono d'accordo= I agree (lit. I am of accord)
Sei tutti noi!= you can do it! (lit. you are all us)

90: I have hot! 7 common expressions with AVERE in Italian

Joy of Languages — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0100

Careful when saying “I’m hot” in Italian! Why? Find out how to avoid embarrassing mistakes by learning these expressions with AVERE (have) in Italian.

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Today's Italian words:
Ho caldo = I'm hot
Ho freddo = I'm cold
Ho 40 anni = I'm 40
Ho sete = I'm thirsty
Ho fame = I'm hungry
Ho sonno = I'm sleepy
Ho paura = I'm scared

89: How to answer COME STAI in Italian (and 3 common mistakes to avoid)

Joy of Languages — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0100

How should you reply when someone asks “Ciao, come stai?”. Learn how to avoid simple mistakes when answering this classic Italian conversation opener.

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Today's Italian words:
Come stai= How are you?
Bene, bene= well, well
Bene, grazie= well, thank you
Tutto bene= everything’s well

Episode 88: ESSERE vs. STARE: How to Tell the Difference between these Two Verbs

Joy of Languages — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0100

In Italian, there are two verbs that mean “to be”: essere and stare. When should you use each one? Find out in this simple guide!

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87: How to Have an Italian Accent, the Quick and Painless Way!

Joy of Languages — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0100

Want to sound more authentic when speaking Italian? Listen to discover the secrets of having an Italian accent.

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Today's Italian words:
Pausa = break
Auto = car
Opera = opera
Pizza = pizza
Panini = sandwiches
Responsabile = responsible