Learning a language goes beyond mastering grammar and vocabulary. It's about diving into the culture, understanding colloquial expressions, and feeling like a local.
In this article, we'll delve into 20 Italian text slang words and phrases that will not only help you sound like a local but also navigate the nuances of Italian internet culture.
From expressions that convey indifference to those laden with sarcasm, these common Italian slang terms are your gateway to the heart of Italian communication.
1. Chissene
Let's kick off with "Chissene," an abbreviation for "Chi se ne frega," which is similar to the English phrase "Who cares?" This expression encapsulates the Italian attitude of nonchalance and laid-back demeanor.
It's the perfect way to shrug off minor annoyances or express indifference in a laid-back manner.
Example: Paolo non mi ha richiamato, ma chissene. (Paolo didn’t call me back, but who cares?)
2. Sveglia
When you see this slang phrase online, it's usually accompanied by eye-rolling sarcasm. It's a humorous way to mock conspiracy theories or absurd beliefs, often used to highlight disbelief or frustration.
Example: La terra è piatta! SVEGLIA!! (The earth is flat! WAKE UP!)
3. Pancina
If someone is oversharing every detail of their pregnancy on social media, they might be called a "Pancina." This term humorously refers to a soon-to-be mother who floods Facebook with pregnancy updates and questions.
Example: Da quando è incinta, Paula è diventata una vera pancina. (Since she’s pregnant, Paula has become a real pancina.)
4. Smanettone
Ever needed tech support in Italy? You might have come across a "Smanettone."
This is one of the funny Italian slang words used to refer to someone adept at handling computers and technology, often sought after for troubleshooting and advice and fixing tech-related issues.
Example: Il mio amico è un vero smanettone, mi ha risolto il problema con il computer in un attimo. (My friend is a real smanettone, he fixed my computer problem in no time.)
5. tvb
Short for "ti voglio bene," "tvb" is an expression of affection akin to "I like you" or "I care about you."
This is one of the Italian expressions used online among friends and family to convey warmth and fondness.
6. tvtb
Taking it up a notch, "tvtb" stands for "ti voglio tanto bene," expressing a deeper level of affection.
This online Italian slang phrase is for the kind of sentiment you reserve for those closest to your heart, indicating a strong emotional bond.
7. tvtttttb
If you want to go all out in expressing love and affection, "tvtttttb" has you covered. With as many "t's" as you desire, this exaggeration of "ti voglio tanto bene" signifies an overwhelming amount of love and care.
8. t.a.
Transitioning into romantic territory, "t.a." abbreviates "ti amo," which translates to "I love you." It's a declaration of love reserved for romantic partners, expressing deep affection and attachment.
9. t.a.t.
Expanding on "t.a.," "t.a.t." stands for "ti amo tanto," conveying a profound and intense love. Whether whispered softly or proclaimed passionately, this phrase encapsulates the depth of one's feelings.
10. bc
Closing the circle with affectionate gestures, "bc" represents "baci," meaning "kisses." It's a sweet and tender expression often used to end messages or convey affectionate sentiments.
11. Dai!
This Italian slang phrase means "Come on!" and is used to encourage someone or express wonder and disbelief.
Example: Maria e Antonio sono tornati insieme? Ma dai! Non ci credo! (Maria and Antonio are back together? Come on! I don’t believe it!)
12. Meno male
"Meno male" is a sigh of relief and one of the Italian slang words expressing gratitude that something turned out better than expected.
Example: Meno male che mi hai aiutata, non ci sarei riuscita da sola. (Thank God you helped me, I couldn’t make it by myself.)
13. Grande
"Grande!" is an informal way to say "Great!" or "Well done!" It's used to show admiration or congratulate someone.
Example: Mi hanno detto che hai preso 30 all’esame. Grande! (They told me that you got an A on the test. That’s great!)
14. Scialla
"Scialla" is the slang word for ‘chill’ or ‘relax.’ It's another variation of "don’t worry" in Italian slang.
Example: Non preoccuparti, scialla! (Don't worry, chill!)
15. Mi fa cagare
The literal translation of "Mi fa cagare" would be ‘That makes me poop,’ but it’s often used as a way to express disgust or disdain.
Example: Questo film mi fa cagare. (This movie disgusts me.)
16. Sei scemo
"If someone is being mean, you can say ‘sei scemo.’ Although this phrase literally means ‘you’re shrinking,’ it’s commonly used as slang for an Italian who is being unpleasant.
Example: Non dire sciocchezze, sei scemo. (Don't talk nonsense, you're being mean.)
17. Che palle
"Che palle" is used in Italian when you want to say something is annoying. Although it literally translates to ‘what balls,’ it’s often used as a way to say ‘what a pain in the ass.’
Example: Devo lavorare tutto il weekend, che palle! (I have to work all weekend, what a pain!)
18. Un/una guastafeste
"Un/una guastafeste" is a fun Italian slang word that can be used to call someone a ‘party pooper.’ Basically, anyone who is in a bad mood and doesn’t want to join in the fun.
Example: Non essere un guastafeste, vieni con noi alla festa! (Don't be a party pooper, come with us to the party!)
19. In bocca al lupo
"In bocca al lupo" is an Italian expression that translates to ‘In the mouth of the wolf.’ It's used to wish someone good luck, akin to saying ‘break a leg’ in English. When someone says "In bocca al lupo" to you, the customary response is ‘crepi.’
Example: Before a big exam, your Italian friends wish you luck by saying "In bocca al lupo!" (Good luck!)
20. Come il cacio sui maccheroni
"Come il cacio sui maccheroni" directly translates to ‘like sheep’s milk for the macaroni.’ However, it's actually used as a slang for Italian locals, similar to the English phrase, ‘just what the doctor ordered.’
Example: After a stressful week, a relaxing weekend getaway is "come il cacio sui maccheroni." (just what the doctor ordered.)
FAQs Relating to Italian Slang Phrases
In this section, let's also explore some of the most frequently asked questions about learning Italian slang phrases used by native speakers.
What are some Italian American Slang Words?
Some Italian American slang words include "famiglia" (family), "capisce?" (do you understand?), and "mamaluke" (fool or idiot).
What Italian slang phrase can be insulting?
One Italian slang word that can be insulting is "Vaffanculo," which translates to "Go f*** yourself."
How can I teach myself Italian?
You can teach yourself Italian using various resources such as language learning apps, online courses, textbooks, and immersion methods like watching Italian movies or listening to Italian music.
You can also try speaking Italian with a language exchange partner and talking to Italian locals whenever you are in Italy to pick up some conversational expressions and Italian colloquialisms.
What is harder Spanish or Italian?
Whether Spanish or Italian is harder to learn depends on your native language and personal learning style. Some find Spanish easier due to its more straightforward grammar, while others may find Italian easier due to its similarity to English in terms of vocabulary.
How can I practice Italian pronunciation?
To practice your Italian pronunciation, you can listen to Italian podcasts, watch Italian movies or TV shows, and repeat phrases aloud to mimic native speakers' intonation and rhythm. Also, practice with Italian native speakers
Summing Up: 20 Italian Slang Words To Sound Like a True Native
By incorporating these 20 fun Italian slang words into your vocabulary, you'll not only sound like a true native but also navigate the intricacies of Italian internet culture with ease.
From expressions of indifference to declarations of love, these Italian expressions capture the essence of Italian communication, enriching your linguistic journey and connecting you more deeply with Italian culture.
So, next time you're chatting with your Italian friends or immersing yourself in the vibrant streets of Italy, don't forget to sprinkle these slangs into your conversations.
You can also get fluent in Italian slang with Lingopie! Start your free trial today and immerse yourself in authentic Italian shows and movies to sound like a true native.
Buona fortuna!
