3 Parola del Giorno Words (3) (Checked & Completed)

Question 1

L’ÙFO

(nome maschile)

Answer 1

UFO; an unidentified flying object;

un oggetto volante non identificato

Today’s Parola del giorno is the masculine invariable noun “l’ÙFO”, which means “UFO” or “unidentified flying object”.

In English, this word is an initialism - we say each of the letter: You-Eff-Oh.

In Italian, L’UFO is an acronym so it is pronounced as a word.

Sometimes you will also hear on the news or in military reports the initialism written or spoken as “unidentified flying object.”

In Italian, the individual letters are not mentioned. No one would ever say “U-effe-o.”

When spelled out, the noun is no longer invariable: “un oggetto volante non identificato” or “an unidentified flying object”.

Question 2

Non poterne più + infinito (espressione)

Answer 2

→ to not be able to take anymore

Non poterne più di
→ to be unable to take (sth) anymore

Today’s Parola deol giorno is the expression “non poterne più + infinito”, which means “to be exhausted from doing something” or “to be unable to stand doing something any longer”.

Don’t forget that the “ne” is obligatory! This use of “ne” is pleonastic (“ne” pleonastico) - what this means is that the “ne” is there more for style and convention than for meaning. It is largely superfluous but still necessary.

Here’s an example from earlier in the week from the expression “essere/stare alla frutta”, which used this expression:

a. Sergio non ne può più di cantare. Quando apre bocca sembra non riuscire ad emettere alcun suono. È proprio alla frutta ormai!

→ Sergio cannot sing anymore. When he opens his mouth, it seems he cannot let out a sound. Now he has really reached his limit!

Question 3

Essere/stare alla frutta (espressione)

Answer 3

→ to have had enough; to have reached the end of something; to have reached one’s limit;

(figurative) to be at the bottom of the barrel; to hit rock-bottom

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the idiomatic expression, “essere/stare alla frutta”, which means “to have reached the end of something” or “to have reached one’s limit”.

Literally, it means “to be at the end of the meal”.
Traditionally, the serving of fruit signified the end of an Italian meal and was often served as a way of promoting digestion as well as offering a simple, yet tasty, final course.

The expression is used to describe someone who is totally exhausted and cannot continue. It can be used in a variety of contexts.

a. Sergio non ne può più di cantare. Quando apre bocca sembra non riuscire ad emettere alcun suono. È proprio alla frutta ormai!

→ Sergio cannot sing anymore. When he opens his mouth, it seems he cannot let out a sound. Now he has really reached his limit!

Question 4

Strappalàcrime (aggettivo)

Answer 4

→ a tear-jerker

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the invariable adjective¹, “strappalàcrime”, which means “tear-jerker”².

This adjective usually refers to books, stories, or movies, but it is often used ironically to describe other things (it was used to describe a letter of resignation written by Sandro Bondi, Minister of Culture in one of the former Berlusconi governments).

Note that in Italian how the adjective modifies a noun, but in English we drop the noun and just use “tear-jerker”.

a. Un film strappalacrime per me è ET di Steven Spielberg! Ho scoppiato a piangere quando ET è finalmente tornato a casa!

→ A tear-jerker for me is Steve Spielberg’s ET! I burst into tears when ET finally went home!

[Strappalacrime (agg invar)

1 (patetico) tear-jerking, tear-jerker;
(informal, disapproving) mushy, soppy, sappy, schmaltzy;
(disapproving) manipulative

a. Fanno questi filmati strappalacrime per raccogliere fondi per la ricerca, ma chissà se ci si può fidare.

→ They make these tear-jerking movies to raise money for research, but who knows if you can trust them?.]

1 Remember that invariable adjectives are the same for either gender and for both singular and plural nouns.

2 Note the placement of the accent on the last ‘a’ in the word!

Question 5

Lasciarci le penne (espressione)

Answer 5

→ to lose one’s life doing sth.; to die;

(informale, familiare) (rimetterci la vita, morire) to die, to get o.s. killed

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression, “lasciarci le penne”, which means “to lose one’s life” or “to die”.

Italian has a number of verbs to express dying, however, it is important to note that this expression is meant to be used in a humorous way, like in the example below.

You shouldn’t use this expression when talking about something serious.

a. I miei amici vanno a fare lo skydiving e mi hanno invitato. Stanno fuori? Non voglio lasciarci le penne: preferisco rimanere sulla terra!

→ My friends are going skydiving and invited me. Are they crazy? I don’t want to lose my life: I prefer to stay on the ground.

Question 6

Svogliato (aggettivo)

Answer 6

→ (indolente, pigro) listless; indolent, lazy

Today’s Parola del giorno is the adjective “svogliato”.

It can mean “listless” as well as “indolent” or “lazy”.

It comes from the noun “la voglia”, which means “desire” or “willingness”.

Remember that the opposite meaning for many Italian nouns, verbs, and adjectives can involve placing an “s-“ before the word.

Question 7

Schiacciare un pisolino (espressione verbale)

Answer 7

(= fare un pisolino; farsi una breve dormita)

→ to take a snooze; to have/take a nap

[= fare un sonnellino; fare un pisolino; schiacciare un pisolino; schiacciare un sonnellino]

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression, “schiacciare un pisolino”, which means “to take a snooze” or “to have/take a nap”.

a. La domenica, dopo pranzo, mi fumo una sigaretta e schiaccio un pisolino. Non c’è niente di più bello di riposare un’oretta dopo il pranzo della domenica… anche se non fa molto bene alla digestione!

→ On Sundays, after lunch, I smoke a cigarette and have a nap. There is nothing more beautiful than resting an hour after Sunday lunch…even if it is not very good for the digestion!

Vi piace schiacciare un pisolino?
→ Do you like to take a nap?

Question 8

Fare tirocinio (espressione verbale)

Answer 8

→ to do an internship/apprenticeship

[Tirocinio (nm)
→ (apprendistato, pratica) internship; apprenticeship]

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression, “fare tirocinio”¹, which means “to do an internship/apprenticeship”.

Apprenticeships and internships are common in Italy, especially at university.

You can see the expression used in its context below (note the missing definite article):

a. C’è tanta competizione nel mio campo che forse dovrei fare tirocinio prima di entrare nel mondo di lavoro.

→ There is so much competition in my field that perhaps I should do an internship before entering the job market.

Question 9

Il dietro front (espressione)

Answer 9

→ a U-turn; an about face

a. Fare dietro front
→ to make a U-turn; to do an about face

Today’s Parola del giorno is the masculine invariable noun “il dietro front”, which can mean “a U-turn” or “an about face” (you sometimes see it also as one word “il dietrofront”).

In military contexts, it can be used as an interjection (Dietro front! = About face), when soldiers marching must turn around to face a commanding officer.

To make a U-turn or to do an about face, use the verb fare: “fare dietro front”.

You may encounter this expression when a person or group abruptly changes course on something.

The expression made the headlines when a political party in Italy abandoned plans to push through amendments on legislation related to Italy’s Green Pass and other COVID-19 legislation.

Question 10

Avere le mani bucate (espressione verbale)

Answer 10

→ to spend money like water

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression, “avere le mani bucate”, which means “to spend money like water”.

The expression’s literal translation is “to have hands with holes in them”.

a. Marco ha proprio le mani bucate! Cena ogni sera in ristoranti di classe e poi arriva al sabato senza un soldo in tasca!

→ Marco really spends money like water. He has dinner out every evening in classy restaurant and then he’s broke when Saturday comes around!

Question 11

Spavaldo (aggettivo)

Answer 11

→ bold or arrogant

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective, “spavaldo”, which means “bold” or “arrogant”.

a. Giorgio è molto spavaldo, non ha mai paura di sbagliare e punta in alto. Ha una mentalità vincente e ambiziosa.

→ Giorgio is very bold, is never afraid of making a mistake and aims high. He has a winning and ambitious outlook.

Question 12

Satollo (aggettivo)

Answer 12

→ full; stuffed; satiated

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective, “satollo”, which means “full” or “stuffed” – as in, unable to eat another bite (in other words, satiated).

a. Sono satollo! Non riuscirei ad ingoiare un altro singolo boccone di cibo, nemmeno sotto tortura!

→ I am full! I couldn’t eat another single bite of food, even under torture!

Question 13

Darsela a gambe (espressione, verbo pronomiale)

Answer 13

→ to cut and run; to take to one’s heels

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the pronominal verb “darsela a gambe”, which means “to cut and run” or “to take to one’s heels”.

This is something one might do to get away from someone/something dangerous or an uncomfortable and impossible situation.

a. I malintenzionati che hanno provato a rubare la borsetta a mia nonna non avevano fatto i conti con il mio Rottweiler. Quando il cane ha inziato a inseguirli, se la sono data a gambe così velocemente che sembrava stessero volando!

→ The prowlers who tried to steal my grandmother’s purse didn’t take my Rottweiler into account. When the dog started to follow them, they took to their heels so quickly it seemed they were flying!

Question 14

Moschettiere (nome maschile)

Answer 14

→ a musketeer

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun “il moschettiere”, which means “a musketeer”.

Like English, the noun can be used to refer to a group of people who are inseparable and usually up to some form of shenanigans!

a. Marco, Mario e Marcello sono sempre insieme: quando io e i miei amici li vediamo in giro, li chiamiamo “I tre moschiettieri!” – sono proprio inseparabili!

→ Marco, Mario, and Marcello are always together: when my friends and I see them around, we call them “The Three Musketeers!” – they are just inseparable!

Question 15

Trincerarsi (verbo pronominale)

Answer 15

→ to hide

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the pronominal verb, “trincerarsi”, which means “to hide”.

The past participle is “trincerato”.
“Essere” is used in compound tenses.

Note the placement of the accent when conjugated:
trincèro, trincèri, ecc.

a. Ogni volta che la sua squadra perde l’allenatore si trincera dietro scuse banali: dal clima sfavorevole ai torti arbitrali.

→ Every time his team loses he hides behind banal excuses: from the unfavorable weather to refereeing faults.

Question 16

Pungente (aggettivo)

Answer 16

Pungente (aggettivo)

→ bitter; prickly; stinging

Today’s Parola del giorno¹ is the adjective, “pungente”, which can mean the following depending on the context:
1 bitter
2 prickly
3 stinging

You can see the adjective used in its various contexts, both figurative and literal, below:

a. Stai lontano dai cactus! I suoi aghi pungenti provocano molto dolore!
→ Stay away from the cactus! It is prickly needles cause a lot of pain!

b. Eravamo sopra alla montagna e un freddo pungente ci penetrava nelle ossa.
→ We were in the mountains and a bitter cold was penetrating our bones.

c. La satira pungente di Daniele Luttazzi è malvista dai politici sia di destra che di sinistra.
→ The stinging satire of Daniele Luttazzi is disliked by politicians of the right more than the left.

Question 17

A oltranza

Answer 17

→ to the last

a. Lo sciopero a oltranza
→ an all-out strike

b. Combattere a oltranza
→ to fight to the death

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the phrase, “a oltranza”, which literally means “to the last”.

It is often combined with the noun, “lo sciopero”, to mean “an all-out strike” or with the verb, “combattere (a oltranza)”, meaning “to mean to fight to the death”.

a. I ferrovieri minacciano sciopero a oltranza se non verranno accolte le loro richieste di adeguamento contrattuale.

→ Railworkers are threatening an all-0ut strike if their requests for a contractual increase are not accommodated.

Question 18

Intrallazzare (verbo transitivo)

Answer 18

→ to wheel and deal; to scheme

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the intransitive verb, “intrallazzare”, which means “to wheel and deal” or “to scheme”.

The past participle is “intrallazzato”.

“Avere” is used in compound tenses.

a. Nei libri di Leonardo Sciascia si legge spesso di personaggi che intrallazzano, rubano o corrompono.

→ In the books of Leonardo Sciascia, one often reads about characters that scheme, steal and bribe.

Question 19

Derattizzare (verbo transitivo)

Answer 19

→ to derat (that is, to exterminate rats); to get rid of rats

Today’s Parola del giorno is the transitive verb, “derattizzare”, which means:

to derat (that is, to exterminate rats, to get rid of rats

This interesting verb has a past participle of “derattizzato” and takes “avere” in compound tenses.

Question 20

Per volta (espressione)

Answer 20

→ at a time

a. Una cosa alla/per volta
→ one thing at a time.

Today’s Parola del giorno is the expression “per volta”, which means “at a time”.

Question 21

Il sistema solare

Answer 21

→ the Solar System

Today’s Parola del giorno is the noun, “il sistema solare”, which means:

the solar system¹

Our Solar System consists of planets, a sun, asteroids and other space phenomenon!

A great way to increase your vocabulary is to read about things you know about on the Italian version of Wikipedia.

You can use the English version (which sometimes are direct translations, but not always) as a way of testing yourself as you build new vocabulary.

The excerpt below is an article on the Sun (Il Sole):

a. “Il Sole (dal latino Sol) è la stella madre del sistema solare, il nostro sistema planetario, attorno alla quale orbitano gli otto pianeti principali (tra cui la Terra), i pianeti nani, i loro satelliti, innumerevoli altri corpi minori e la polvere diffusa per lo spazio (che forma il mezzo interplanetario). Il Sole, inoltre, costituisce da solo il 99,8% della massa del sistema.”

→ “The sun (from the Latin sol) is the mother star of the solar system, our planetary system, around which orbit the eight principal planets (among which the Earth), nano-planets, and their moons, numerous other smaller bodies and widespread space dust (that forms the interplanetary medium). The sun, too, constitues by itself 99.8% of the system’s mass.”

1 “Il sistema” is masculine, not feminine.
Most masculine nouns in Italian with Greek roots are typically masculine.
Other nouns that follow this pattern:
il problema, il tema, il programma, among others!

Question 22

Innescare (verbo transitivo)

Answer 22

→ to trigger

Today’s Parola del giorno is the transitive verb, “innescare”, which means:

to trigger

The verb can be used literally in its scientific sense, such as triggering a reaction or an explosion.
Or it can be used figuratively, as in triggering someone’s anger or triggering a war, as seen in the context below about the Napoleonic Wars (in which parts of Italy were engaged):

a. “Guerre napoleoniche è il termine usato per definire l’insieme delle guerre combattute nel periodo in cui Napoleone Bonaparte governò la Francia. Furono in parte una estensione dei conflitti innescati* dalla rivoluzione francese e continuarono durante tutto il Primo impero francese….”

→ “The Napoleonic wars is the term used to definie together with the hard fought wars during the period in which Napoleon Bonaparte governed France. They were in part an extension of the conflicts triggered by the French Revolution and continnued during all of the First French Empire….”

Question 23

Pitone (nome maschile)

Answer 23

→ a python

Today’s Parola del giorno is the noun “il pitone”, which means “a python”.

a. Anni fa un pitone birmano si è mangiato una coperta elettrica matrimoniale, completa di filo elettrico e comandi. Un gruppo di veterinari hanno dovuto operare per salvare il serpente.

→ Years ago a Burmese python ate up a queen-sized electric blanket along with the controller and cord. A team of veterinarians had to operate to save the snake.

Other useful vocabulary:
1 Birmano:
→ Burmese

2 Filo elettrico:
→ a power chord

3 Il comando:
→ a control box (of the electric blanket)

4 I comandi:
→ controls (or control boxes)

5 La coperta:
→ a blanket

6 La coperta elettrica:
→ an electric blanket

7 La coperta elettrica matrimoniale:
→ a queen-sized electric blanket

Question 24

Blando (aggettivo)

Answer 24

→ mild, tame

Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective, “blando”, which means “mild” or “tame”.

Note that it does NOT mean bland.

a. La partita ha avuto un ritmo piuttosto blando. Sembrava che a nessuno dei giocatori importasse davvero di vincere.

→ The match had a rather tame pace. It seemed that none of the players really cared about winning.

Question 25

Roseo (aggettivo)

Answer 25

→ rosy; bright, promising Today's Parola del Giorno is the adjective, "roseo", which means "rosy", when talking about the colour of something. It can also be used in a figurative sense to mean bright or promising -- such as a bright or promising future ("un futuro roseo"). a. Mariella ha un futuro roseo: si è laureata presto, ha trovato un bel lavoro, ha un buon salario e fra poco si sposa con un bravo uomo d'affari. → Mariella has a rosy future: she graduated early, she found a great job, she has a good salary and soon she is getting married to a great businessman.

Question 26

Il geco (nome maschile)

Answer 26

→ a gecko Today's Parola del Giorno is the noun, "il geco", which means "a gecko". A gecko is a kind of lizard of small to average size that is usually found in warm parts of the world. a. Gli spot pubblicitari della Geico sono molto divertenti! È così buffo quando il geco parla con quell’accento! → The Geico commercials are very amusing! It is so funny when the gecko speaks with that accent!

Question 27

Giacca a vento (nome femminile)

Answer 27

→ a windbreaker Today's Parola del Giorno is the noun, "la giacca a vento", which means "a windbreaker". a. Oggi vado in centro a comprare una giacca a vento per la partenza. Nel caso trovassi brutto tempo a Toronto, almeno mi ripara dal vento e dalla pioggia. → I am going downtown today to buy a windbreaker for my departure. In case I run into bad weather in Toronto, at least it will protect me from the wind and rain.

Question 28

A mente fresca (espressione)

Answer 28

→ with a clear mind Today's Parola del Giorno is the expression, "a mente fresca", which means "with a clear mind". a. È tutta la mattina che studio, e mi sembra di non capire più quello che leggo. Meglio che mi distraggo per un po’ e riprendo a studiare a mente fresca tra qualche ora. → I have been studying all morning, and I can't seem to understand what I am reading. It is better that I distract myself for a bit and resume studying with a clear mind in a few hours.

Question 29

Prefiggersi (uno scopo)

Answer 29

→ to set (a goal), to set one's sights on something, to be determined to do something (prefiggersi di fare qualcosa) Today's Parola del Giorno is the verb, "prefiggersi (uno scopo)", which means "to set (a goal)", "to set one's sights on something", or "to be determined to do something" (prefiggersi di fare qualcosa). The past participle is "prefisso". "Essere" is used in compound tenses. a. Figlia: Mamma, non so cosa fare prima: vorrei iniziare danza classica, vorrei andare in piscina e nel frattempo devo anche studiare. Sono confusa! Madre: Figlia mia, è meglio se non ti prefiggi troppe cose e affronti le cose una alla volta così non ti confondi. Un passo alla volta! -→ Daughter: Mom, I don't know what to do first: I would like to start classical dance, go to the pool and in the meantime I also have to study. I am confused! Madre: My daughter, it is better if you don't set your sights on too many things and deal with things one at a time so you do not get confused. One thing at a time!

Question 30

Grazioso (aggettivo)

Answer 30

→ cute, lovely Today's Parola del Giorno is the adjective, "grazioso", which means "cute" or "lovely". It can be used to describe people, animals, and even places. a. Mia cugina ha adottato un cagnolino dal canile, è così grazioso. Ogni volta che mi vede mi fa le feste. → My cousin adopted a puppy from the pound, and it is so cute. Every time it see me, it jumps all over me.

Question 31

Il parente / I genitori

Answer 31

→ relative / parents Today’s Parola del Giorno features the nouns "il parente" and "i genitori", which means "relative" and "parents", respectively. Be careful not to confuse these two words! "Il parente" does not mean "parent". a. I miei genitori mi hanno chiesto di comprare dei bigliettini per la cerimonia di laurea, così ringraziamo tutti i parenti che assisteranno. → My parents asked me to buy some thank you cards for my graduation ceremony so I can thank all the relatives who will attend.

Question 32

Sciorinare (verbo transitivo)

Answer 32

→ to rattle off Today's Parola del Giorno is the verb, "sciorinare", which means "to rattle off". a. Quando mia madre fa la valigia, le piace sciorinare ogni cosa che mette dentro. Secondo me le parole che dice ad alta voce la aiutano a non dimenticare cose importanti per il viaggio. → When my mother packs, she likes the rattle off everything that she puts inside. In my opinion the words that she says aloud help her not to forget important things for the trip.

Question 33

Belga (aggettivo maschile e femminile)

Answer 33

→ Belgian; (= del Belgio, abitante del Belgio) The adjective "belga" can be confusing, because it functions differently from other words used to describe nationality, such as: → italiano, italiana / italiani, italiane (Italian) → americano, americana / americani, americane (American) → russo, russa / russi, russe (Russian) → spagnolo, spagnola / spagnoli, spagnole (Spanish) → brasiliano, brasiliana / brasiliani, brasiliane (Brazilian) The adjective "belga" is both the masculine and feminine form. This adjective also has an irregular masculine plural: → belgi (not belghi) The forms of belga are: → belga (m. and f.singular) → belgi (m. plural) → belghe (f. plural)

Question 34

Sguinzagliare (verbo transitivo)

Answer 34

→ to unleash, to let loose (= togliere il guinzaglio; (figurato) inviare ovunque) Today's Parola del Giorno is the verb "sguinzagliare", which means "to unleash" or "to let loose". a. La nuova legge impone ai proprietari di sguinzagliare i propri cani solo nelle apposite aree nei parchi. → The new law requires owners to unleash their dogs only in the special areas in the park.

Question 35

Non capire un'acca (espressione)

Answer 35

→ to be unable to make heads or tails of something Today's Parola del Giorno is the expression, "non capire un'acca", which means "to be unable to make heads or tails of something". The word, "l'acca" is the letter, H, (which is silent in Italian), having slowly lost its pronunciations from Latin and so the expression is used to say that one does not understanding something. a. Nonostante abbia seguito con estrema attenzione il corso per imparare ad usare Microsoft Excel, non ci capisco ancora un’acca. → Even though I paid close attention to the course so I could learn to use Microsoft Excel, I still can't make heads or tails of it.

Question 36

Cercarsela (verbo pronominale)

Answer 36

→ to ask for it Today's Parola del Giorno is the pronominal verb cercarsela, which means "to ask for it". a. Perché Matteo continua a rompere la scatole a Emilio? Se la cerca proprio: Emilio non apprezza certe critiche, particolarmente sulla sua storia con Elena. → Why does Matteo continue to bother Emilio? He is really asking for it: Emilio does not appreciate certain criticism, especially about his relationship with Elena.

Question 37

Fare (largo) uso (di + qualcosa) (espressione)

Answer 37

→ to make (great) use (of something) Today's Parola del Giorno is the verb expression, "fare (largo) uso (di + qualcosa)", which means "to make (great) use (of something)". You will find this expression used often in Italian cookbooks. a. Come mai nei piatti romani si fa un così largo uso del guanciale? Io sono vegetariano... c'è qualche piatto tipico romano senza carne? → Why is it that Roman dishes make such great use of guanciale? I am a vegetaraian...are there any typical Roman dishes without meat?

Question 38

Far sgocciolare i piatti (espressione)

Answer 38

→ to let the dishes (drip) dry Today's Parola del Giorno is the expression "far sgocciolare i piatti¹", which means "to let the dishes (drip) dry". Literally, the expression means "to let the dishes drip". a. Quando abitavo in Italia, mi mancava non avere la lavastoviglie; ogni sera dopo cena dovevo lavare i piatti e farli sgocciolare su uno scolapiatti. → When I used to live in Italy, I missed not having a dishwasher; every night after dinner I had to wash the dishes and let them dry on the dish rack.

Question 39

A capofitto (espressione)

Answer 39

→ headlong Today's Parola del Giorno is the prepositional phrase "a capofitto", which means "headlong". a. I colleghi di Martina dicono che lei è una stacanovista: si butta a capofitto in tutti i progetti di lavoro. → Martina's co-workers say she is a workaholic: she throws herself head first into all her work projects.

Question 40

Dalla a alla zeta (espressione)

Answer 40

→ from a to z Today's Parola del Giorno is the prepositional phrase "dalla a alla zeta", which means "from a to z". a. A Natale mio zio mi ha regalato un'enciclopedìa¹ su Star Wars che spiega tutto di quei film, dalla a alla zeta. → For Christmas my uncle gave me an encyclopedia about Star Wars that explains everything about the films, from A to Z. 1 Note the placement of the stress on the second to last vowel!

Question 41

Chattata (nome femminile)

Answer 41

→ (Internet) chat Today’s Parola del giorno is the noun "la chattata", which means "(internet) chat". I encountered this word while talking with a friend of mine in Italy on Facebook messenger; we hadn’t talked in a while because of our busy schedules. I sent him a quick “hello” on Facebook, he responded, and we exchanged messages briefly. At the end of our discussion, he thanked me for "la chattata". The noun "la chattata" is a neologism or a new word or expression. In Italian, these new words and expressions are called "neologismi". When you are chatting with a friend online, use the verb "chattare". When you are chatting with someone face to face, use the expression "fare due (o quattro) chiacchiere" or the verb "chiacchierare" to say you are “chatting".

Question 42

Lo smacchiatore

Answer 42

→ a stain remover My favorite Italian words to pronounce are those that begin with s + consonant, like our example today, "lo smacchiatòre". "Uno smacchiatore" is "a stain remover" - a product you might use on clothes that you might have gotten some tomato sauce on…or perhaps some olive oil? The word "smacchiatore" comes from the Italian word "màcchia", which means "stain". The "s-" before the word "smacchiatore" changes the meaning of many adjectives, nouns, and verb much like the use of the English prefix "un-" or can indicate an opposite action or meaning. Here are a few examples that came to mind: Conosciuto → known Sconosciuto → unknown Gonfiare → to blow up (with air) Sgonfiare → to deflate La fiducia → trust La sfiducia → mistrust, distrust Contento → happy Scontento → unhappy Vestirsi → to get dressed Svestirsi → to undress

Question 43

Il / La sosia (nome femminile o maschile)

Answer 43

→ a look-alike, a dead wringer, a double Today's Parola del Giorno is the invariable noun, "il/la" sosia, which means "a look-alike", "a dead wringer" or "a double". a. L'uomo che è venuto a fare il colloquio nel nostro ufficio è praticamente il tuo sosia! Ti assomiglia molto - è il tuo gemello? → The man who came to the interview in our office is virtually your double! He looks like you a lot - is he your twin?

Question 44

Rosticerria (nome femminile)

Answer 44

→ rotisserie; delicatessen Today's Parola del Giorno is the noun, "la rosticcerìa", which means "rotisserie" or "delicatessen". In Italy, "le rosticcerie" are shops where they serve the Italian equivalent of "fast food," such as arancini, pizza, calzone, and other gastronomic delights ("street food"). You'll find them in almost every Italian city and town. a. Di solito non ho tempo per un pranzo completo e compro qualcosa che posso mangiare al volo in rosticceria. → I usually don't have time for a complete lunch, and I buy something I can eat on the fly at the rotisserie.

Question 45

Incagliarsi (verbo pronomiale)

Answer 45

→ to reach a deadlock Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "incagliarsi", which means "to reach a deadlock". See the verb used below in this example when Greece was having financial difficulties several years ago: a. Dopo mesi di negoziazioni, i paesi europei hanno finalmente deciso di aiutare la Grecia. Quando si erano incagliati senza una soluzione, pensavo che la Grecia lasciasse l’Unione Europea. → After months of negotiations, the European countries finally decided to help Greece. When they had reached a deadlock without any solution, I thought Greece might leave the European Union.

Question 46

Chiudersi fuori (espressione verbale)

Answer 46

→ to lock oneself out of something Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression, "chiudersi fuori", which means "to lock oneself out of something", such as locking yourself out of the house. a. La scorsa notte ho dormito a casa dei miei vicini di casa perché per sbaglio mi sono chiuso fuori casa perché la porta si è chiusa e sono rimasto per strada. → Last night I slept at the neighbor’s house because I locked myself out of the house by mistake because the door closed and I was left on the street.

Question 47

Venire

Answer 47

→ to cost Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb, "venire", which, in the context below, means "to cost" (you probably know the verb to mean "to come"). It can be used in the expression "Quanto viene? "to ask "How much is it?" (as in, "how much does this cost?"). Remember that "venire" is a highly irregular verb (present tense: vengo, vieni, viene…vengono). Let us look at the context below: a. Angela: Che bella! Mi piace molto questa camicia. Carla: Ma quanto viene? Questo negozio è molto caro! Angela: Non lo so. Fammi chiedere alla commessa. Signora, quanto costa? → Angela: How beautiful! I like this blouse a lot. Carla: But how much is it? This store is very expensive! Angela: I don’t know. Let me ask the sales clerk. Ma’am, how much is it?

Question 48

Caprìno / Formàggio caprino (nome maschile)

Answer 48

→ goat's cheese Today’s Parola del giorno is the noun "il caprìno", which can mean "goat's cheese". You may also see "il formàggio caprino", as well. Goat's cheese is common in Italy, and it is one of my favourite cheeses. a. Ti piace il caprino? Facci sapere nei commenti! → Do you like goat cheese? Let us know in the comments!

Question 49

Che barba! (espressione)

Answer 49

→ What a drag! Today’s Parola del giorno is the expression "Che barba!", which means "What a drag!". a. Oggi mi tocca stare a casa tutto il giorno a studiare e non posso uscire con i miei amici. Che barba! → Today, I have to stay home and study all day, and I can’t go out with my friends. What a drag!

Question 50

Mi cola il naso (espressione)

Answer 50

→ My nose is running Today’s Parola del giorno is the verb expression "Mi cola il naso", which means "My nose is running". It can also mean "I have the sniffles", which is American slang for a cold, especially when one has a runny nose and/or congested sinuses. It is inevitable that at the end of the year I end up with the cold (il raffreddore) or flu (l’influenza), so in honour of the virus, I thought it would be helpful to learn some expressions related to being under the weather! This expression is versatile. If you wanted to say “His nose is running” or “Her nose is running,” you just changed the pronoun at the start of the phrase: 1 Gli cola il naso. → His nose is running. 2 Le cola il naso. → Her nose is running.

Question 51

Dòse (nome femminile)

Answer 51

→ a dose (of medicine) Today’s Parola del giorno is the noun "la dòse", which can mean "dose". You will see this noun a lot as people around the world get their first and second dose (depending on the vaccine) for protection against COVID-19.

Question 52

Evaporare (verbo intransitivo)

Answer 52

→ to evaporate Today's Parola del Giorno is the verb, "evaporare", which can mean "to evaporate". When the weather is hot in Italy, it is not uncommon to hear people using the verb "evaporare" to say that they are boiling! a. Oggi fa troppo caldo, sto evaporando. Sto proprio soffrendo!! → It is very hot today, and I'm boiling. I am really suffering!

Question 53

Il colloquio telefonico

Answer 53

→ a telephone interview Today's Parola del giorno is the noun "il collòquio telefònico", which translates as "telephone interview". "Un colloquio" is the kind of interview you have for a job. An interview that is done in the news or on broadcast television is "un’intervista".

Question 54

Mi viene qualcosa (espressione)

Answer 54

→ I am coming down with something Today’s Parola del giorno is the verb expression "Mi viene qualcosa", which means "I am coming down with something". This expression is usually used when talking about an illness, usually a minor one like a cold or the flu. a. Mi sento terribile…credo che mi venga qualcosa.¹ Sai dov’è il termometro perché vorrei misurare la febbre. → I feel terrible….I think I’m coming down with something. Do you know where the thermometer is because I would like to take my temperature. 1 Note the use of the subjunctive after "Credo che"!

Question 55

Avere presente (espressione)

Answer 55

→ to bear in mind; to know someone/something; sapere, conoscere, avere in mente (qualcosa) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "avere presente", which means "to bear in mind" or "to know someone/something". Figlia: Mamma, come si chiama l’attrice protagonista di questo film che abbiamo guardando? → Daughter: Mom, what is the name of the lead actress in that film we watched? Madre: Ho presente chi sia, l’ho già vista in altri film, ma non ricordo proprio come si chiama. → Mother: I know who she is, I saw her before in other films, but I do not really remember what her name is.

Question 56

Sentirsi uno straccio (espressione)

Answer 56

→ to feel /to be worn out Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression, "sentirsi uno straccio", which means "to feel /to be worn out". "Uno straccio" is "a cloth" or "a rag". a. Oggi ho studiato tutta la mattina e di pomeriggio ho dovuto coprire il turno del mio collega a lavoro. Mi sento uno straccio, e ho bisogno di dormire. → Today I studied all morning and in the afternoon I had to cover my colleague’s shift at work. I am worn out and need to sleep.

Question 57

Nemìco (nome maschile, femminile)

Answer 57

→ an enemy Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun, "il nemìco", which means "an enemy". Pay attention to where the stress goes — think of the word l’amìco! Same stress, different prefix! a. Mia nonna diceva sempre: è meglio avere un nemico intero che un amico a metà. → My grandmother always used to say: it is better to have a whole enemy than half a friend

Question 58

Modulo (nome maschile)

Answer 58

→ a form Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun, "il modulo", which means "a form". Italy is “famous” for its many moduli da compilare (forms to fill out) - "C’è sempre qualcosa da compilare!" a. Oggi mi sono iscritto in piscina e ho compilato il modulo di iscrizione, ho perso quasi dieci minuti perché c’erano troppi campi da compilare! → Today I signed up for the pool, and I filled out the enrollment form. I wasted almost ten minutes because there were too many sections to fill out!

Question 59

Circo mediàtico (espressione)

Answer 59

→ a media circus Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression, "il circo mediàtico", which means "a media circus". a. Quando Madonna è venuta a Roma l’altro ieri, ogni canale, giornale e giornalista la aspettavano all’aeroporto. Il traffico era incredibile ed era proprio un circo mediatico! → When Madonna came to Rome the other day, every TV station, newspaper and jouranlist was waiting for her at the airport. The traffic was unbelievable, and it was really a media circus!

Question 60

Cartomante (nome maschile, femminile)

Answer 60

Il/la cartomante → a fortune-teller Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il/la cartomante", which means "a fortune-teller". a. Il cartomante lesse le carte a Chiara e le disse che l’aspettava un futuro pieno di soddisfazioni lavorative, ma le disse anche di stare attenta perché c’era il rischio che il suo fidanzato la stesse tradendo con un’altra donna. → The fortune-teller read Chiara’s cards and told her that she should expect a future full of work satisfaction but also told her to pay attention because there was the risk her boyfriend might be cheating on her with another woman.

Question 61

Stringere la cinghia (modo di dire (=idiomatic espression))

Answer 61

→ to tighten one’s belt Today’s Parola del Giorno is the idiomatic expression "strìngere la cìnghia", which means "to tighten one’s belt". In Italian, this expression is called "a modo di dire" or "an idiomatic expression". a. Ho chiesto a mia cugina a cosa sarebbe disposta a rinunciare se dovesse iniziare a stringere la cinghia se i soldi non le bastassero più. Lei mi ha risposto che rinuncerebbe a fare shopping. → I asked my cousin what would she be willing to give up if she had to start tightening her belt if there wasn’t enough money anymore. She responded to me that she would give up shopping.

Question 62

Indovinala grillo! (Locuzione)

Answer 62

→ Your guess is as good as mine Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression, "Indovinala grillo", which means "Your guess is as good as mine". a. Adriana: Cosa è successo alla signora del quinto piano? → Adriana: What happened to that woman on the fifth floor? Caterina: È andata a vivere con i suoi figli. → Caterina: She went to live with her children. Adriana: Che ne sarà della sua casa adesso? → Adriana: What will happen to her house now? Caterina: Indovinala grillo! → Caterina: Your guess is as good as mine!

Question 63

Razzo (nome maschile)

Answer 63

→ a rocket The Chinese rocket hurtling uncontrolled through the atmosphere back to Earth has finally crash landed into the Indian Ocean. The Italian word for "rocket (engine)" is "il razzo". Don’t confuse this with the word "la razza", which can mean "race" as in the human race (la razza umana) or "breed" (when referring to animals, like dogs, cats, horses, etc.). Some authorities in the south of Italy were urging residents to stay indoors Saturday night in case there were any dangers of falling debris.

Question 64

Lapalissiàno (aggettivo)

Answer 64

→ self-evident Today’s Parola del giorno is the adjective "lapalissiàno", which means "self-evident". It is synonymous with "ovvio" and "evidente".

Question 65

Andare in macchina

Answer 65

→ to drive; to go by car Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "andare in macchina", which means "to drive" or "to go by car". There is a difference between the verb "guidare" and "andare in macchina". The verb "guidare" is transitive (transitivo) and is typically used to refer to the act of driving some form of transport or riding a form of transport. It stresses the activity, and it is often followed by the mode of transportation being driven (macchina, moto, autobus, etc.). The expression "andare in macchina" stresses movement to/from a particular place/location. Our example contrasts the two: a. A mia madre non piace andare in macchina da nessuna parte se deve guidare lei. Dice che c’è sempre troppo traffico per strada e poi non le piace guidare di notte perché non vede bene al buio. → My mother does not like driving anywhere if she has to drive. She says there is always too much traffic on the roads and then does not like to drive at night because she doesn’t see well in the dark.

Question 66

La tolleranza zero (espressione)

Answer 66

→ zero tolerance Today's Parola del giorno is the noun expression, "la tolleranza zero", which translates as "zero tolerance". Since COVID-19 has swept across the globe, you will see this expression "tolleranza zero" used a lot in describing the stances that authorities are taking with violators of lockdown. You can also see it in a number of other contexts, too.

Question 67

Sondaggio (nome maschile)

Answer 67

→ a poll Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il sondaggio", which means "a poll". Election and primary season is here in the United States, and you will see this word in Italian papers and news program as they report on the political happenings in the United States! It is a useful word to know for Italian politics, too! a. Chi vincerà le elezioni? Trump? La Clinton? È impossible fidarsi dei sondaggi quando arrivano a conclusioni diverse! → Who will win the election? Trump? Clinton? It is impossible to trust some polls when they come to different conclusions!

Question 68

Sapere di fregatura (espressione)

Answer 68

→ to sound dodgy, to sound fishy Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "sapere di fregatura", which means "to sound dodgy" or "to sound fishy". a. Oggi ho ricevuto una risposta dal mio curriculum. Purtroppo “l’offerta” di lavoro sa di fregatura: non sembra un’offerta reale e penso che vogliano ingannarmi. → Today, I received a response from my resume. Unfortunately, the “job offer” sounds fishy: it doesn’t seem like a real offer, and I think they might want to scam me.

Question 69

Berlina (nome femminile)

Answer 69

→ a sedan, a saloon (British English) (a type of car usually for four to five people) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun, "la berlina", which means sedan (or saloon in British English), a type of car usually for four to five people. The number of doors and seat configuration is dependent on the manufacturer although they typically have four doors and/or a hatchback. a. Ragazzi, sapete che Maria ha venduto la station wagon che aveva da quindici anni e si è comprata una nuova berlina? È spaziosa, elegantissima, blu scuro, dentro ci sono tutti i comfort e non consuma nemmeno troppa benzina come la station wagon. Anche io vorrei un’auto così! → Guys, did you know Maria sold the station wagon she had for fifteen years and bought a new sedan? It is spacious, very elegant, dark blue, inside there are all the comforts and it doesn’t use a lot of gas like the station wagon. I would like a car like that, too!

Question 70

In un baleno (espressione)

Answer 70

→ in a flash; in the blink of an eye. Today’s Parola del Giorno is the prepositional phrase "in un balen"o, which means "in a flash" or "in the blink of an eye". "Il baleno" refers to "a flash of lightning". a. Tiziano era davvero affamato, tantoché ha mangiato il piatto di pasta in un baleno. “Da quanti giorni non mangi?,” gli ho chiesto stupito. → Tiziano was really hungry, so much so that he ate his dish of pasta in a flash. “For how many days have you note eaten,” I astonishingly asked him.

Question 71

Andare a quel paese (espressione)

Answer 71

→ to get lost, to drop dead, to go to hell Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "andare a quel paese", which means "to get lost", "to drop dead" or "to go to hell". "Quel paese" refers to what Italians would call "l’inferno" or "hell". You will hear this expression a lot with irate drivers. It is quite common to hear around Italy! I’d be surprised if you haven’t heard it! Having said all of that, please be cautious in using this expression. It is quite offensive. a. Al compleanno di Gianni, c’è stata una lite fra Marianna e Tommaso che è velocemente diventata molto tesa. Tommaso è scappato quando Marianna ha gridato “Vai a quel paese! Mi fai schifo!” Non sappiamo il motivo della lite ma forse è perché giorni fa lui ha cacciato di casa la sorella di Marianna. → At Gianni’s birthday, there was an argument between Marianna and Tommaso that quickly became very tense. Tommaso took off when Marianna shouted “Go to hell! You make me sick!” We don’t know the reason for the argument, but it is perhaps because some days ago he dumped Marianna’s sister.

Question 72

Cacciare di casa (espressione)

Answer 72

→ (mandar via: persona) to throw s.o. out of the house; to drive away, to chase away 1 Cacciare qn di casa/dal paese/dalla scuola → to throw sb out of the house/the country/school; (nemico) to drive away; (tristezza, malinconia, dubbio) to chase away

Question 73

Civetta (nome femminile)

Answer 73

→ an owl Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la civetta", which means "an owl". a. Nella serie TV Twin Peaks, la civetta è un simbolo del male ma nella cultura greca la civetta era simbolo di intelligenza e della dea Atena. → In the series Twin Peaks, the owl is a symbol of evil, but in Greek culture the owl was a symbol of intelligence and the Goddess Athena.

Question 74

An Owl by Any Other Name .....

Answer 74

Gufo? Civetta? The many Italian words to describe owls. A Facebook user recently contacted my Facebook page a few years back to ask about the difference between the word "il gufo" and "la civetta". This user wanted to know the difference between the two words – were they simply synonyms or did they refer to different types of owls? The answer is the second: they refer to different kinds of owls! The Italian word "il gufo" is the animal that is the most famous in the ‘family’ of owls; it is the one with the straight feathers on top of its head that look like two ears, and it is the most common word for owl in Italian — in other words, if you don’t know the kind of owl you mean, use il gufo. "Il gufo reale" is equivalent to "the eagle-owl" in English. "La civetta" is the smaller owl and is very common in Italy; it is known as the little owl in English. There is also the word "il barbagianni" that is equivalent to "the barn owl" with its feathers and round head. Lastly, there is also the word "l’assiolo", which is the smallest of the owls, "the Eurasian scops owl".

Question 75

Farla franca (espressione)

Answer 75

→ to get away with sth. Today’s Parola del Giorno is the pronominal verb "farla franca", which means "to get away with it", in other words not being discovered or avoiding the consequences of some bad deed having been done (like thieves breaking into your home and never getting caught). a. I ladri sono entrati in casa della Signora Rossi alle 03:00 di mattina e si sono portati via tutti i gioielli della Signora. Nessuno in casa si è accorto di niente e i ladri l’hanno fatta franca con un bottino di più di quattromila Euro! → The thieves got into Mrs. Rossi’s house at 3:00 AM, and they stole all of the lady’s jewelry. No one at home realized anything, and the they got away with it with a more than 4,000 euro of loot! Grammar Note: Don’t forget that when the pronominal verb ends in "-la", the past participle in compound tenses remains in the feminine singular even when the verb is used in the plural (as in our example).

Question 76

Sbeccare (verbo transitivo)

Answer 76

→ to chip something Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "sbeccare", which means "to chip something". The past participle is "sbeccato"; "avere" is used in compound tenses. a. Carlo è preoccupato perché, mentre spolverava la casa, ha sbeccato un vaso che sua nuora gli ha regalato. Il danno non è troppo visibile ma Carlo teme che sua moglie se ne accorga. Lui dice sempre che la moglie ha gli occhi di lince, si accorge di tutto! → Carlo is worried because, while he was dusting the house, he chipped a vase his daughter-in-law gave him. The damage is not too noticeable, but Carlo is afraid his wife will notice it. He always says his wife has the eyes of a hawk, she notices everything!

Question 77

Sgabello (nome maschile)

Answer 77

→ a (bar) stool Lo sgabello Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun, "lo sgabello", which means "a (bar) stool". a. Quando vado a mangiare al ristorante, preferisco sedermi sugli sgabelli perché li trovo più comodi delle sedie. Mi piace sedermi su una posizione più alta, così posso vedere meglio il locale! → When I go eat at the restaurant, I prefer to sit on the stools, because I find them more comfortable than the chairs. I like to sit up high so I can see the place better.

Question 78

Rompere le scatole (espressione)

Answer 78

→ to get on s.o.’s nerve, to bother s.o. Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "rompere le scatole", which means to get on someone’s nerves or to bother someone. a. La smettete di rompere le scatole al cane, per favore? Lasciatelo dormire! → Can you stop bothering the dog, please? Let him sleep!

Question 79

Tirocinante (nome maschile, femminile)

Answer 79

Il/la tirocinante → an intern, a trainee Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il tirocinante", which means "an intern" or "a trainee". a. Oggi in azienda arriveranno tre nuovi tirocinanti: Sandra dovrà seguirli e spiegare loro i progetti su cui lavoriamo. Spera che i tirocinanti siano motivati ad imparare, visto che gli ultimi non lo erano. → Today at the office three new interns arrived: Sandra will have to monitor them and explain to them the projects we are working on. She hopes the interns are motivated to learn since the last ones were not.

Question 80

Fare una capatina [da qualcuno] (espressione)

Answer 80

→ to pop in and see Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression "fare una capatina [da qualcuno]", which means "to pop in and see [someone]". "Una capatina" is "a brief visit". a. Domani non lavoriamo e ti passiamo a trovare al bar alle 3 di pomeriggio, così quando finisci di lavorare facciamo una capatina da Mario, è da tanto tempo che ci vuole vedere! → We are not working tomorrow, and we’ll drop by and see you at 3:00 in the afternoon, so when you finish working, we’ll pop in and see Mario since he’s been wanting to see us for a while.

Question 81

Essere come il prezzemolo (espressione)

Answer 81

→ to turn up everywhere Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "essere come il prezzemolo", which means "to turn up everywhere". In Italian cooking, "il prezzemolo" or parsley turns up in a variety of dishes and recipes, hence the expression! a. Ogni volta che accendo il televisore, vedo sempre la stessa presentatrice TV! Non importa il canale che io guardi; sembra che lei sia ovunque, è come il prezzemolo! → Every time I turn on the TV set, I always see the same TV presenter! It does not matter what channel I am watching; it seems as if she’s all over the place, she turns up everywhere!

Question 82

Cartomante (nome maschile, femminile)

Answer 82

Il/la cartomante → a fortune-teller Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il/la cartomante", which means "a fortune-teller". a. Il cartomante lesse le carte a Chiara e le disse che l’aspettava un futuro pieno di soddisfazioni lavorative, ma le disse anche di stare attenta perché c’era il rischio che il suo fidanzato la stesse tradendo con un’altra donna. → The fortune-teller read Chiara’s cards and told her che she should expect a future full of work satisfaction but also told her to pay attention because there was the risk her boyfriend might be cheating on her with another woman.

Question 83

Evaporare (verbo intransitivo)

Answer 83

→ to evaporate Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "evaporare". This verb literally means "to evaporate", but it is often used by Italians to talk about excessive heat. You might translate this as "to boil" or "to swelter". You will hear this expression more often in the south of Italy, but it would not be strange to hear it in Rome or even in Milan! a. Che caldo che faceva l’estate scorsa, ti ricordi? Siamo evaporati dal caldo quel giorno a Lecce. Ci saranno stati 35 gradi! → How hot was it last summer, do you remember? We sweltered in the heat that day in Lecce. It must have been 35 degrees!

Question 84

Smottamento

Answer 84

Lo smottamento → a landslide Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "lo smottamento", which means "a landslide". This noun comes from the verb "smottare", which means "to slide down". a. Dopo tre settimane di piogge torrenziali in montagna, la paura di uno smottamento di terra diventa davvero reale. → After three weeks of torrential rains in the mountains, the fear of a landslide is becoming a real possibility.

Question 85

I buoni propositi

Answer 85

→ New Year’s resolutions News Years, new resolutions! Have many of us make resolutions at the start of the new year? In Italian, "i buoni propositi" are "New Year’s resolutions". Do you have any buoni propositi for the new year? My usual ones: 1 Dimagrire → to lose weight 2 Eliminare le schifezze → to cut out junk food [= Le schifezze → junk food] 3 Laurearsi → to graduate 4 Procrastinare di meno → to procrastinate less

Question 86

Stuzzicare (verbo transitivo)

Answer 86

→ to tease; to provoke; to taunt Today’s Parola del giorno is the verb "stuzzicare", which can mean: → to tease → to provoke → to taunt The past participle is "stuzzicato", and "avere" is used in compound tenses. a. Matteo, smettila! Non stuzzicare tua sorella o ti probirò di uscire! → Matteo, stop it! Don't tease your sister or I will ground you!

Question 87

Crepitante (aggettivo)

Answer 87

→ roaring or crackling (of a fire) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective "crepitante" (from the verb "crepitare"), which means roaring or crackling when describing a fire (like the one that you might have in your fireplace). a. Maria e Marco amano andare in montagna all’inizio dell’inverno perché per loro è una cosa romantica. Gli ricorda quando erano ancora ragazzi e si frequentavano: un po’ di brandy, la compagnia e un fuoco crepitante che crea l’atmosfera giusta. → Maria and Marco love going to the mountains at the start of winter because it is something romantic for them. It reminds them of when they were still dating: a bit of brandy, the company and a roaring fire to set the mood. [Grammar Note: The verb "crepitare" means "to crackle" or "to pop" when describing a fire. It can also be used to mean to rustle – like the sound you might make while walking over fallen leaves in autumn. Note that in the present tense, the stress is in the verb stem: crepito, crepiti, crepita, crepitiamo, crepitate, crepitano.]

Question 88

L’equinozio di primavera (nome maschile)

Answer 88

→ vernal equinox Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "l’equinozio di primavera", which means "vernal equinox". While we were a bit late to the party, I know I for one am glad that spring has – I hope – finally arrived in upstate New York! a. Nonostante la tradizione del giorno della marmotta, la primavera comincia ufficialmente con l’arrivo dell’equinozio di primavera; al calendario non interessa niente della marmotta che ha paura della sua ombra! → Despite the tradition of Groundhog Day, spring officially starts with the arrival of the vernal equinox; the calendar doesn’t care at all about the groundhog afraid of his shadow!

Question 89

Azzopparsi (verbo pronomiale)

Answer 89

→ to become lame Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "azzopparsi", which means "to become lame". a. Quando il nostro gatto è stato investito da una macchina, avevo paura che si azzoppasse ma dopo un intervento dal veterinario ha recuperato e adesso riesce a camminare di nuovo! → When our cat was hit by a car, I was afraid he would become lame, but after an operation at the vet’s he recovered and now is able to walk again!

Question 90

Le fauci (nome feminnile plurale)

Answer 90

→ the jaws (of an animal) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun, "le fauci", which means "the jaws of an animal". It is always in the plural (and it is feminine, too). a. L’anno scorso in un safari in Kenya abbiamo visto una scena da documentario: un leone non vedeva l’ora di mangiarsi la sua preda, inseguendola con le fauci spalancate. Per fortuna la gazzella è riuscita a sfuggirgli con un balzo rapido e improvviso! → Last year on safari in Kenya we saw a documentary-like scene: a lion couldn’t wait to eat his prey, following it with its gaping jaws. Luckily, the gazelle was able to get away from it with a quick and sudden leap!

Question 91

Stucchevole (aggettivo)

Answer 91

→ sickly sweet, cloying, treacly, mawkish Today’s Parola del giorno is the adjective "stucchévole", which can mean: "sickly-sweet", usually in the sense of something that becomes nauseating or that we become tired of quite quickly a. Non riesco mai a finire di mangiare la zuppa inglese. È troppo dolce...dopo un po' diventa stucchevole. → I am never able to finish eating trifle. It is too sweet...after a bit it becomes nauseating.

Question 92

Guazza (nome femminile)

Answer 92

→ heavy dew Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la guazza", which means "heavy dew". a. Questa mattina l’erba del prato era tutta coperta di guazza. Quando sono tornato a casa dopo la passeggiata, le mie scarpe erano tutte bagnate. → This morning the grass in the yard was all covered in dew. When I got home after my walk, my shoes were all wet.

Question 93

Anno nuovo, vita nuova

Answer 93

→ Time to turn over a new leaf Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "Anno nuovo, vita nuova", which means "Time to turn over a new leaf". According to some sites, it is a common expression in Italy, but I have to admit that I have never heard it. Of course, that doesn’t mean much since I have never been in Italy at this time of year. That being said, the start of a new year is often a time when there is a desire to change the tone and direction of one’s life! a. Il primo gennaio è una data importante per molte persone. Tanti dicono “anno nuovo, vita nuova,” promettendo di cambiare la direzione delle proprie vite. → The first of January is an important date for many people. So many are saying “Time to turn over a new leaf,” promising to change the direction of their lives.

Question 94

Tangente (nome femminile)

Answer 94

→ a bribe, a tangent (in mathematics) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la tangente", which means "a bribe". "La tangente" can also mean "tangent" that is used in mathematics. a. Spesso si legge sul giornale che un politico ha accettato una tangente in cambio di favori. Per esempio, spesso un’azienda dà soldi a un politico nella speranza che questo politico riesca a cambiare una legge per favorire l’azienda stessa. → You often read in the paper how a politician accepted a bribe in exchange for favors. For example, a company often gives money to a politician in the hope that this politician can change a law to favor that same company.

Question 95

Pareo (nome maschile)

Answer 95

Il pareo → beach robe, pareo Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il pareo", which means "a beach robe" or "a pareo". It is a style of dress typical of Tahiti and the Cook Islands. However, it is typically used in Italy and in the West as a sort of robe that one might wear to cover a bathing suit while at the beach. a. La ragazza uscì dall’acqua e andò verso l’ombrellone. Si annodò il pareo trasparente intorno ai fianchi e andò a comprarsi un gelato, perché era troppo caldo quel giorno al mare. → The woman got out of the water and went towards the umbrella. She tied the thin pareo around her hips and went to buy herself an ice cream, because it was too hot that day at the beach.

Question 96

Una rondine non fa primavera (espressione)

Answer 96

→ One swallow does not make a summer; one swallow does not a summer make Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "Una rondine non fa primavera", which means "One swallow does not make a summer" (or one swallow does not a summer make). It literally means one swallow does not make Spring. It means that a single instance of something does not necessarily indicate a trend. In other words, just because one good thing has happened, it doesn’t mean that other good things will necessarily follow. a. Anche se hai fatto bene l’ultimo test, sappi che una rondine non fa primavera. Per superare questo corso devi ancora studiare tanto! → Even if you did well on the last test, know that one swallow does not make a summer. In order to pass this course, you still have to study a lot!

Question 97

Gilda (nome femminile)

Answer 97

→ a guild Today’s Parola del Giorno this week is the noun "la gilda", which means "a guild". Guilds played an important part in the economic and artistic development of Florence: just look around the city and see all the wonderful works of art and sculpture that can be found on every corner. One of my favorite churches that demonstrates the power and patronage of the guilds is the church Orsanmichele. Have you ever seen it? a. Un po’ in tutta Europa, nel medioevo nacquero delle associazioni di lavoratori che avevano lo scopo di difendere i lavoratori stessi: in italiano, queste associazioni si chiamano gilde. Una gilda molto importante a Firenze era quella dell’Arte della lana. Forse non tutti sanno che le gilde fiorentine finanziarono molte opere d’arte che oggi abbelliscono la città. → All over Europe during the Middle Ages, associations of workers sprung up with the purpose of defending their workers: in Italian, these associations were called guilds. A very important guild in Florence was the wool guild. Perhaps not everyone is aware that the Florentine guilds financed many works of art that beautify the city today. Did you know that the wool guild — l’Arte della lana — is considered one of the Arti Maggiorni or greater trades?

Question 98

Esserci un tempo da lupi (espressione)

Answer 98

→ There is terrible/foul weather out Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "esserci un tempo da lupi". It is used with the verb esserci (c’è) and translates to "There’s terrible/foul weather out". In Italian, wolves are often used to things that are hostile or difficult, such as climate, weather or places. a. Il fine settimana scorso c’era un tempo da lupi: nevicava e tirava un vento incredibile. Ho preferito non uscire e starmene a casa al caldo! → Last weekend there was terrible weather out: it was snowing, and the wind was blowing hard. I preferred not to go out and stayed home in the heat!

Question 99

Calesse (nome maschile)

Answer 99

Il calesse → a carriage, a cart (horse-drawn) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il calesse", which means "a carriage" or "a cart" (like those drawn by horses). a. Nel museo del Settecento che abbiamo visitato il mese scorso, c’era una mostra sui calessi che i nobili dell’epoca utilizzavano per spostarsi in città e in campagna. Alcuni erano talmente pieni di comfort da sembrare simili alle automobili di oggi! → In the museum dedicated to the 18th-century we visited last month, there was an exhibition on carriages nobles of the period used to use to move about the city or head out to the countryside. Some were so full of comforts that they seemed similar to today’s automobiles!

Question 100

Vedersela brutta (espressione)

Answer 100

→ a close shave; to narrowly escape Today’s Parola del Giorno is the pronominal verb "vedersela brutta", which means "to have a close shave" or "to escape narrowly". Note the pronouns tacked on the end of the verb! This is un verbo pronominale, and the pronouns change the nature and meaning of the original verb "vedere". Verbs such as "andarsene" and "farcela" also fall into this “family” of verbs. a. Mario e Giacomo ci hanno raccontato dell’incidente di lunedì scorso quando una macchina all’improvviso ha tagliato loro la strada. Entrambi si sono rotti una gamba e se la sono proprio vista brutta: pensa che la macchina è stata completamente distrutta! → Mario and Giacomo told us about the car accident last Monday when a car suddenly cut them off. They both broke their legs, and they just narrowly escaped: imagine that the car was totally wrecked!

Question 101

L’equinizio d’autunno (espressione)

Answer 101

→ Autumn / Fall Equinox Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "l’equinizio d’autunno", which means "Autumn / Fall Equinox". The Autumn / Fall Equinox signifies that day and night are both approximately 12 hours each, according to timeanddate.com. This year the Fall equinox is Saturday, 22 September 2018. a. Ogni 22 settembre*, durante l’equinozio di autunno, mia madre ripete sempre le stesse parole: “Finalmente le giornate si accorciano e comincia a fare più fresco, amo l’autunno!” → Every 22nd of September, during the Autumn / Fall Equinox, my mother always says repeats the same words: “Finally the days are shortening, and it is starting to get cooler, I love autumn!” *Note that the Autumn / Fall Equinox typically falls on the 22nd, 23rd or 24th of September. The date tends to vary from year to year!

Question 102

Amaca (nome feminnile)

Answer 102

→ a hammock (L’amaca) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "l’amaca", which means "a hammock" (watch the accent – it is on the second “a” not the first). a. Ieri abbiamo montato un’amaca in giardino: che bello rilassarsi e dondolarsi d’estate quando il sole tramonta e non fa troppo caldo! → Yesterday we installed a hammock in the garden: how beautiful is it relaxing and rocking oneself during the summer when the sun sets and it is not too hot!

Question 103

Tenere in mente (espressione)

Answer 103

→ to keep in mind Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression "tenere in mente", which means "to keep in mind". Note that "tenere" is irregular in the present tense in Italian: tengo, tieni, tiene… tengono. The past participle is "tenuto". a. Quando farai l’esame di scuola guida, tieni a mente che non puoi fare molti errori o non passerai il test. Meglio che ti prepari come si deve! → When you take your driving school test, keep in mind that you can’t make a lot of errors or you won’t pass the test. It is best you prepare yourself properly! [Grammar Note! Remember that some "–ere" verbs have their stress in the stem of the Infinitive while others have it in the root of the Infinitive. Leggere, credere, and chiudere have their stress in the stem. Others, like tenere, cadere, and vedere, have it in the infinitive’s ending.]

Question 104

Solare (aggettivo)

Answer 104

→ sunny (weather); radiant, cheerful (person) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective "solare", which means "sunny" when talking about the sun or "radiant/cheerful" when talking about a person or people. a. Caterina è davvero una persona solare: quando c’è lei sono tutti di buonumore e l’atmosfera a lavoro è molto più rilassata. → Caterina is a really cheerful person: when she is here, everyone is in a good mood, and the atmosphere at work is much more relaxed.

Question 105

Scoperchiare

Answer 105

→ to uncover; to open something Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "scoperchiare", which means "to uncover" or "to open something". The past participle is "scoperchiato", and "avere" is used in compound tenses. a. Mia nonna mi dice sempre che dopo un po’ che il sugo di pomodoro cuoce, devo scoperchiare la pentola: in questo modo, l’acqua in eccesso evaporerà e il sugo sarà più cremoso. → My grandmother always tells me that after the sauce cooks a bit, I have to uncover the pot: this is so the excess water will evaporate, and the sauce will be creamier. Some other useful words: il coperchio: cover, lid la presina: pot holder la casseruola: saucepan

Question 106

Appioppare un nomignolo (a qualcuno) (espressione)

Answer 106

→ to pin/hang a nickname (on someone) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "appioppare un nomignolo (a qualcuno)", which means "to pin/hang a nickname (on someone)". a. A scuola, i compagni di mio fratello gli hanno appioppato il nomignolo di Mozart perché lui ama stare davanti al pianoforte quando gli altri ragazzi giocano a calcio. → At school, my brother’s classmates pinned the nickname “Mozart” on him because he loves to be at the piano when the other kids are playing soccer.

Question 107

Saltare (verbo transitivo)

Answer 107

→ to skip or to miss something (i.e. an event or meal) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "saltare", which means "to skip" or" to miss something", such as an event or meal. When used transitively, "saltare" requires "avere" in compound tenses. The past participle is "saltato". a. Peccato che Roger Federer salti il Roland Garros! È uno dei miei tennisti preferiti. → It is a pity Roger Federer is skipping Roland Garros! He is one of my favorite tennis players. [NB: Note the use of the Subjunctive (Il Congiuntivo) with Peccato che.]

Question 108

Lo spaventapasseri

Answer 108

→ a scarecrow / scarecrows (Lo spaventapasseri / gli spaventapasseri) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "lo spaventapasseri", which means "a scarecrow". Note that the noun "lo spaventapasseri" is invariable — it has the same form in both the singular and plural: lo spaventapasseri -> gli spaventapasseri a. In quel campo di grano ormai abbandonato era rimasta la sagoma di un vecchio spaventapasseri, su cui erano appoggiati alcuni corvi. → In that wheat field now abandoned there was the outline of an old scarecrow on which some crows were resting.

Question 109

Il fuoco di paglia (espressione)

Answer 109

→ a flash in the pan Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "il fuoco di paglia", which can mean "a flash in the pan". It is usually used to describe something that doesn’t last long and has little chance of being repeated, such as straw on fire (which is what the expression literally means). a. L’amore tra Carolina e Umberto è stato un fuoco di paglia, dopo due mesi che si frequentavano, si sono lasciati. → The love between Carolina and Umberto has been a flash in the pan that after two months of seeing each other, they broke up.

Question 110

Rincaro (nome maschile)

Answer 110

→ an increase, a rise Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il rincaro", which means "an increase" or "a rise". a. Ogni anno vediamo un rincaro dei prezzi di qualsiasi prodotto. Per i giovani italiani è davvero difficile vivere e mantenersi da soli, visto che al rincaro dei prezzi non sempre corrisponde un aumento degli stipendi. → Every year we see an increase in the prices of common products. For young Italians it is really difficult to live and earn a living, since an increase in the prices does not always correspond to an increase in wages.

Question 111

Accartocciare (verbo transitivo)

Answer 111

→ to crumple (something) up Parola del Giorno is the verb, "accartocciare", which means "to crumple (something) up". a. Ho provato a scrivere molte lettere ma nessuna mi piaceva: dopo tre righe mi innervosivo e accartocciavo il foglio buttandolo sotto la scrivania. → I tried to write many letters, but I didn’t like any: after three lines, I was getting irritated and was crumpling the paper up, throwing it under the desk.

Question 112

Quando il gatto non c’è, i topi ballano (espressione)

Answer 112

→ When the cats away, the mice will play Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "Quando il gatto non c’è, i topi ballano", which means "When the cats away, the mice will play". The expression literally means When the cat isn’t here, the mice will dance. a. L’altro giorno la maestra non si è presentata a scuola e i bambini hanno festeggiato la sua assenza giocando con tanta euforia da rompere una sedia. È proprio vero il detto: quando il gatto non c’è, i topi ballano! → The other day the teacher didn’t show up to school, and the children celebrated her absence with a lot of exhilaration that could break a chair. The saying is really true: when the cat is away, the mice will play!

Question 113

Avercela (con qualccuno) (espressione)

Answer 113

→ to have it in for someone; to be angry with someone. Today’s Parola del Giorno is the pronominal verb "avercela (con qualcuno)", which means "to have it in for someone" or "to be angry with someone". This is a common pronominal verb that you will hear often in Italian, and you will often hear it used. a. Mia moglie non mi parla da due giorni. Ce l’ha con me perché le avevo detto che sabato l’avrei aiutata a pulire tutta la casa e invece sono andato a giocare a calcio con i miei amici. Non so come farmi perdonare! → My wife has not speaking to me for two days. She is angry with me because I had told her that on Saturday I would have helped her clean the whole house, and, instead, I went to play soccer with my friend. I don’t know how to get her to forgive me!

Question 114

Appropriarsi

Answer 114

→ to appropriate Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "appropriarsi", which means "to appropriate". a. Quando vivevo in Canada, ridevo sempre quando vedevo qualche piatto con un po’ di mozzarella che veniva venduto subito come un piatto italiano. Come amano appropriarsi delle tradizioni altrui i nordamericani! → When I was living in Canada, I used to laugh when I would see some dish with a bit of mozzarella that was immediately sold as an Italian dish. How North Americans love to appropriate the traditions of others!

Question 115

Salvavita (nome maschile) [nm salvavita; npl salvavita]

Answer 115

→ a circuitbreaker; a lifesaver, a lifesaving drug [nm salvavita; npl salvavita] Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il salvavita", which means "a lifesaver". Take note that this noun is masculine and invariable (it has the same form in the singular and plural). The word can also refer to "a circuit-breaker", which trips when there is an electrical overload or short-circuit. The word can also be used idiomatically, as in our example below: a. Marco, grazie per quel dizionario che mi hai prestato! È stato un salvavita e mi ha aiutato a superare l’esame. → Marco, thanks for that dictionary you loaned me! It was a lifesaver and helped me pass my exam.

Question 116

Disdire un appuntamento (espressione)

Answer 116

→ to cancel an appointment Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression "disdire un appuntamento", which means "to cancel an appointment". a. Claudia aveva fissato un appuntamento con l’agente immobiliare per questo fine settimana ma ieri l’agente le ha telefonato e ha disdetto l’appuntamento. Non potrà vedere la casa che ha intenzione di comprare prima della settimana prossima. → Claudia made an appointment with the real estate agent for this weekend, but yesterday the agent phoned her and canceled the appointment. She will not be able to see the house she intends to buy before next weekend.

Question 117

Folto (aggettivo)

Answer 117

→ bushy (fur or hair) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective "folto", which means "bushy" when describing fur or hair. a. Gli scoiattoli si distinguono dalla coda folta che si raggomitola mentre mangiano le ghiande per terra. → Squirrels are distinguishable from the bushy tale that that curls up while eating acorns on the ground.

Question 118

Alberato (aggettivo)

Answer 118

→ tree-lined Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective "alberato", which means "tree-lined". You can see a picture of the Via della Libertà in Palermo below! It is one of my favorite streets of Palermo, and it is always full of life at all hours (as well as some great shopping, too). a. A Palermo la Via della Libertà è alberata ed è sempre affollata. Sembrerà strano, ma mi rilassa vedere la gente che cammina sotto un viale alberato! → In Palermo Via della Libertà is tree-lined and always crowded. It might seem strange, but it relaxes me when I see people walking under the tree-lined boulevard!

Question 119

Racimolare (verbo transitivo)

Answer 119

→ to scrape together Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "racimolare", which means "to scrape together". a. Marianna non vede l’ora di ricevere la busta paga! Per lei, questa è stata una settimana economicamente difficile. Oggi doveva racimolare gli spicci per comprarsi il biglietto per la metro. → Marianna can’t wait to get paid! This has been a very difficult week for her economically. Today, she had to scrape together change to buy herself the ticket for the subway.

Question 120

Ripristinare (verbo transitivo)

Answer 120

→ to restore (train service, electronics) or to refresh (computers, electronic devices) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "ripristinare", which means "to restore" or "to refresh" when talking about computers and electronic devices. You will also see this verb used when a train or metro line stops working and, after an hour or two or more, the service is restored. a. Ieri un virus mi ha mandato in tilt il computer. Stamattina ho dovuto portarlo dal tecnico, il quale fortunatamente me lo ha ripristinato in meno di un’ora. → Yesterday, a virus broke my computer. This morning I had to bring it to the technician who luckily restored it for me in less than an hour.

Question 121

Frequentare

Answer 121

→ to date, to go out with Today's Parola del Giorno is the transitive verb, "frequentare", which means: → to date → to go out with The past participle is "frequentato", and "avere" is used in compound tenses. However, note that when "frequentare" is used reciprocally (see below), it would require "essere" in compound tenses. a. Marta e Mario si frequentano da due mesi. I genitori di Marta sperano che si sposino presto! → Marta and Mario have been dating for two months. Marta's parents hope that they marry soon! [Note the use of "frequentare" (and sposare) as a reciprocal verb (un verbo reciproco).]

Question 122

Mozzicone (nome maschile)

Answer 122

→ a cigarette butt Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il mozzicone" (or la cicca), which means "a cigarette butt". a. Sapevi che dal 2 febbraio sono in arrivo multe per chi butta a terra i mozziconi (le cicche) di sigaretta a Roma? Forse adesso vedremo una città più rispettata e pulita! → Did you know that from February 2 there will be fines for those who toss their cigarette butts on the ground in Rome? Perhaps now we will see a city that is more respected and cleaner!

Question 123

Stappare (verbo transitivo)

Answer 123

→ to uncork Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "stappare", which means "to uncork". Wine bottles are traditionally sealed with a cork (il tappo). While in English the cork is both the stopper and the material, Italian has two different words. The cork material is called "il sughero". The cork of the bottle can also be made from other materials, too. a. È bene stappare i vini rossi con alcune ore di anticipo, così che prendano aria e acquistino più sapore. → It is good to uncork red wine some hours before so that it is exposed to the air and will have more taste.

Question 124

Spogliarello (nome maschile)

Answer 124

→ a striptease [Lo spogliarello] Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "lo spogliarello", which means "a striptease". a. La scena in cui Kim Basinger fa lo spogliarello in Nove settimane e mezzo è famosissima, per non parlare della canzone You Can Leave Your Hat On, che ormai è diventata sinonimo di spogliarello. → The scene where Kim Bassinger does a striptease in 9 1/2 weeks is famous, not to mention the song, You Can Leave Your Hat On, which has now become synonymous with striptease.

Question 125

Beccheggiare

Answer 125

→ to pitch (of water vessel) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "beccheggiare", which means "to pitch". This verb does not mean to pitch — like in baseball — but the way a boat might pitch — the rising and falling abruptly — in stormy waters! a. Il mare mosso dell’altra notte ha causato molti danni: le barche nel porto beccheggiavano e hanno sbattuto contro il molo distruggendo una parte del ponte di legno. → The rough seas from the other night caused a lot of damage: the boats in the port were pitching and then slammed against the pier, destroying a part of the wooden bridge.

Question 126

Lavorare con accanimento (espressione)

Answer 126

→ to work extremely hard Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "lavorare con accanimento", which means "to work extremely hard". a. A volte Pietro è rigido, troppo serio, e non vuole mai uscire. Però non possiamo negare il fatto che lavora con accanimento per realizzare i suoi sogni. → Pietro is often rigid, too serious, and never wants to go out. But we cannot deny the fact he works extremely hard to fulfill his dreams.

Question 127

Sbrigare

Answer 127

→ to have things to handle/take care of (often errands but not only) Today’s Parola del Giorno is verb "sbrigare", which means "to have things to handle/take care of", often errands but not only. You will often hear Italians use this verb when they are asked what they did during the day or to explain why they can/cannot do something, as in our example below: a. Ciao, Marina, scusa, ma non posso prendere quel caffè con te dopo pranzo; so già che ho cose da sbrigare per mamma. Magari domani? → Hi, Maria, sorry, but I can’t get that coffee with you after lunch; I already know I have things to take care of for mom. Perhaps tomorrow?

Question 128

Il voto di protesta (espressione)

Answer 128

→ protest vote Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun expression "il voto di protesta", which means "protest vote". This expression has come up a lot in the Italian press with the recent Italian elections that have just passed, and it will probably keep coming up until a government is formed. a. Spesso quando ci sono tanti partiti che si candidano, gli elettori votano un piccolo partito. Questo voto è un voto di protesta perché gli elettori sono stanchi dei grandi partiti che non riescono a ottenere risultati quando sono al governo. → Often when there are a lot of political parties running, the voters vote for a small party. This vote is a protest vote because the voters are tired of the large parties that are not able to get results when they are in government.

Question 129

Bocciare (1) (verbo transitivo e intransitivo)

Answer 129

→ to fail Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "bocciare", which means "to fail". Be careful in how you construct your phrases using this verb. When referring to failing something, you have to use the verb in the passive voice. To say that you have failed an exam, you use the expression "essere bocciato a un esame".

Question 130

Bocciare (2i) (verbo transitivo e intransitivo)

Answer 130

1 (non approvare) to reject, to attack; to veto; (slang) to shoot down a. Il parlamento ha bocciato la proposta di legge. → Parliament rejected the proposed law.

Question 131

Bocciare (2ii) (verbo transitivo e intransitivo)

Answer 131

2ii (vtr) (esami, scuola, università) to fail; to flunk; to dismiss; to hold back a. Il professore di inglese ha bocciato tre studenti all'esame. → The teacher failed three students in the exam. b. Da giovane fui bocciato in seconda superiore e dovetti ripetere l'anno. → When I was young I failed my second year of high school and had to repeat the year.

Question 132

Bocciare (3) (verbo transitivo e intransitivo)

Answer 132

3 (vtr) (gioco delle bocce: colpire) (bocce ball) to bounce, to hit a. Mario bocciò la palla di Sandro e vinse la partita. → Mario hit Sandro's ball and won the game.

Question 133

Sottobanco (avverbio)

Answer 133

→ under the table, underhand Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adverb "sottobanco", which means "under the table". When something is done under the table, it typically refers to something that is illegal or quasi-illegal. a. Marco mi ha pagato sottobanco per evitare la burocrazia e le tasse quando un mese fa mi ha “assunto”. → Marco paid me under the table to avoid the bureaucracy and taxes when he “hired” me a month ago.

Question 134

I dazi (il dazio)

Answer 134

→ tarriffs (a tarriff) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "i dazi" (singular: il dazio), which means "tariffs". This word has been flying around in the news lately the announcement that the United States might impose tariffs on a number of imports. Don’t confuse the word "la tariffa" with "tariffs"; "Una tariffa" is "a rate" or "a fee". a. L’Unione Europea ha promesso di reagire con i propri dazi sui jeans e sul whiskey se gli Stati Uniti decidono di mettere i dazi sulle automobili europee. → The European Union promised to retaliate with their own tariffs on jeans and whiskey if the United States decides to impose tariffs on European cars.

Question 135

Tormenta (nome femminile)

Answer 135

→ a storm, a snowstorm or blizzard Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la tormenta", which means "a snowstorm" or "a blizzard". a. Gli alpinisti hanno dovuto passare la notte al rifugio di montagna perché una violenta tormenta di neve li ha bloccati impedendogli di tornare a valle. → The mountain climbers had to spend the night at the mountain refuge because a violent snowstorm stopped them, preventing them from returning to the valley.

Question 136

Spruzzata (nome femminile)

Answer 136

→ a snow flurry Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la spruzzata", which means "a snow flurry" (in American English, at least, we tend to refer to it in the plural: flurries). A snow flurry, according to the National Weather Service, is “light snow falling for short durations. No accumulation or just a light dusting is all that is expected.” As a resident of upstate New York, we have seen a lot of spruzzate lately! a. Devo dire che non mi piace molto la neve ma quando ieri tornavo a casa e guidavo durante quella breve spruzzata, cominciavo a sentire lo spirito delle feste che stanno per arrivare! → I have to say I don’t like snow very much, but when I was returning home and driving yesterday during that brief snow flurry, I started to get into the spirit of the holidays that are about to arrive!

Question 137

Buonanima (nome femminile, aggettivo)

Answer 137

→ The late, the blessed, the dearly departed Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la buonanima". This noun is not easy to translate – it literally means "good soul" and is an honorific used to describe someone who has passed away. It is usually translated as The late, the blessed or the dearly departed. It can also be used as an adjective, too. a. Quando era in vita, la buonanima della mia vicina mi portava sempre la frutta del suo orto. Era davvero una brava persona e la stimavo molto. → When she was alive, my dearly departed neighbor always brought me fruit from her garden. She was really a wonderful person, and I regarded her very highly.

Question 138

Sferzante (aggettivo)

Answer 138

→ lashing, driving (of rain) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective "sferzante", which means "lashing" or "driving" when describing the rain. a. Camminavo lungo via Condotti a Roma quando ha cominciato a piovere. Tutte le persone fuori correvano dentro i negozi per ripararsi dalla pioggia sferzante. → I was walking along via Condotti in Rome when it started to rain. Everyone outside was running insides the stores to shelter from the lashing rain.

Question 139

Le previsioni

Answer 139

→ weather forecast Today’s Parola del giorno is the plural noun "le prevision" (del tempo), which means "weather forecast". It is also not uncommon to see "Le previsioni meterologiche". You can see the plural noun used below: a. Secondo le previsioni, il fine settimana sarà caratterizzato da temperature più basse e venti forti. → According to the forecast, the weekend will be characterized by lower temperatures and strong winds. Other useful expressions with the noun "La previsione": 1 Una previsione prudente → conservative estimate 2 In previsione di qualcosa → In anticipation of something 3 Fare previsioni → to forecast; to make forecasts

Question 140

Lapalissiàno (aggettivo)

Answer 140

Today’s Parola del giorno is one of my favorite words in Italian, the adjective “lapalissiano”. It means “obvious” or “self-evident”. It is synonymous with “ovvio” and “evidente”. a. È lapalissiano che se non studi, non supererai l'esame; non c'è bisogno di dirlo esplicitamente. → It is obvious that if you don’t study, you probably won’t pass the exam; there’s no need to say it explicitly.

Question 141

Pozzanghera (nome femminile)

Answer 141

→ a puddle Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la pozzanghera", which means "a puddle". a. Martina e Giovanna sono comiche quando piove: dopo scuola camminano verso casa e saltano dentro a tutte le pozzanghere, dimostrando che la primavera è qui con le piogge che non finiscono mai! → Martina and Giovanna are funny when it rains: after school, they walk home and jump into all the puddles, demonstrating that spring is here with the rainy season that never ends!

Question 142

Alta, bassa (aggettivi)

Answer 142

→ thick, thin Today’s Parole del Giorno are the adjectives "alta" and "bassa", which mean "thick" and "thin", respectively. Many pizzerias in Italy will often serve two kinds of pizza, "pizza alta" or "pizza bassa" (thick or thin crust pizza). In Rome, the pizza is traditionally "bassa" and "sottile". In Naples, the crust is higher and thicker. The height of the crust varies all over Italy and from pizzeria to pizzeria, but you are bound to find a pizza crust that suits your tastes! Ia. n Italia, ci sono differenti modi di fare la pizza: quella napoletana ha la crosta alta, mentre quella romana ha la crosta più bassa e sottile. → In Italy, there are different ways to make pizza: the Neapolitan one has a thick crust, while the Roman one has a thinner crust.

Question 143

Bruciare il grasso

Answer 143

→ to burn fat Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "bruciare il grasso", which means "to burn fat". You will often hear this expression when talking about food, metabolism, or physical activity and losing weight — something that many people — myself included — promise to do each new year! a. Hai sentito degli effetti della cannella? I ricercatori dicono che la cannella può accelerare il nostro metabolismo e aiutarci a bruciare il grasso. Un’amica mi ha insegnato a fare infusi di cannella con un po’ di acqua calda prima di andare a letto. → Did you hear about the effects of cinnamon? Researchers are saying that cinnamon can increase our metabolism and help us burn fat. A friend taught me to make cinnamon infusions with a bit of hot water before going to bed.

Question 144

Come butta?

Answer 144

→ How is it going? Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "Come butta?", which means "How is it going"? y This expression is very colloquial, and it is used only with people you know well — friends, family members or even the family cat! a. “Ciao Marco, come butta?” → “Hey Marco, how’s it going?” “Non male, Antonio! E tu?” → “Not bad, Antonio! How are you?”

Question 145

Gli agrumi (nome plurale)

Answer 145

→ Citrus fruits Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "gli agrumi", which means "citrus fruits". "Un agrume" refers to either one citrus fruit or a citrus fruit tree. a. A Natale è comune che si mangino gli agrumi dopo un grande cenone. Secondo me aiutano a digerire il cibo consumato. Mi piace mangiare un paio di mandarini con due o tre biscotti o un po’ di limoncello dopo cena! → At Christmas it is common to eat citrus fruits after a large dinner. In my opinion, they help digest the food that we’ve eaten. I like to eat a couple of mandarins with two or three cookies or a bit of limoncello after dinner!

Question 146

Avere un cervello di gallina

Answer 146

→ to be stupid Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "avere un cervello di gallina", which means "to be stupid". It literally means "to have a chicken’s head". Back in the day, intelligence was seen to be proportional to the size of one’s head. Since chickens have small heads (and small brains), they were considered unintelligent animals. a. Tiziana ha finalmente lasciato quel tipo che frequentava perché si comportava male con tutti ed era molto antipatico. Non siamo sorpresi che lei l’abbia lasciato. Quel tipo aveva proprio un cervello di gallina! → Tiziana finally left that guy she was dating because he not behaving well with everyone and was very unpleasant. We are not surprise that she had dumped him. That guy was really stupid!

Question 147

Essere a cavallo (locuzione)

Answer 147

→ to be well on one’s way Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "essere a cavallo", which means "to be well on one’s way". It literally means "to be on the horse", but it refers to someone who has made great strides in some activity or goal and is now moving toward accomplishing it. a. Dopo anni di studi, Annalisa si è finalmente laureata in medicina. Il prossimo mese comincia un nuovo lavoro in ospedale, compra una casa in centro, e può finalmente vivere da sola. È proprio a cavallo! → After years of study, Annalisa finally graduated in medicine. Next month she starts a new job at the hospital, is buying a house downtown, and can finally live on her own. She is really well on her way!

Question 148

Avere grilli per la testa

Answer 148

→ to be flighty; to have flights of fancy Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "avere grilli per la testa", which means "to be flighty" or "to have flights of fancy". "Un grillo" is "a cricket", and they are known for hopping all over the place. Imagine those same crickets in someone’s head — it would be hard to focus with all that jumping and chirping! a. Gianni è rimasto male quando Tommaso si è dimenticato della sua festa di compleanno. I suoi amici non erano sorpresi: “Tommaso ha grilli per la testa e non cambierà mai!” – gli dicevano. → Gianni was upset when Tommaso forget about his birthday party. His friends were not surprised: “Tommaso is flighty and will never change!” they told him.

Question 149

Essere una capra (espressione)

Answer 149

→ to be ignorant; to be obtuse Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression "essere una capra", which means "to be ignorant" or "to be obtuse". a. Non chiedere mai niente a tuo fratello! È una capra e non sa niente. Se hai un problema a scuola, vieni da me! → Never ask my brother anything! He’s ignorant and knows nothing. If you have a problem at school, come to me!

Question 150

Essere un cane (locuzione)

Answer 150

→ to be inept; incapable at something Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "essere un cane", which means "to be inept" or "incapable at something". In Italian, there are many other expressions related to dogs, such as "fa un freddo cane", which means "to be freezing cold". People can also be described as "cani" when you want to describe them as incapable at something. a. Marco non poteva credere che il suo amico dell’università, che adesso lavorava per lui, fosse un cane con i progetti della ditta. Tutte le cose che toccava finivano male! → Marco could not believe his university friend, who now worked for him, was inept with the firm’s projects. Everything he touched came to no good!

Question 151

Andare in bestia (locuzione)

Answer 151

→ to fly into a rage Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression "andare in bestia", which means "to fly into a rage". It literally means "to go to the beast" and implies that someone has been so overcome with anger that they have lost the ability of human reason. a. Senti, non dire a mamma che le pagelle sono uscite oggi! Quando vedrà i miei voti bassi, andrà in bestia e mi metterà in punizione! → Listen, don’t tell mom that report cards came out today! When she sees my low grades, she will fly into a rage and ground me!

Question 152

Musone / Musona (nome)

Answer 152

→ a killjoy; a grumpy or sulky person Building vocabulary is more than just reading through language books. A lot of words that I use for the site I encounter through conversations with friends and people I know. Today’s example is such a case! Today’s Paorla del giorno is the noun "il musone" (or "la musona"), which means "a grumpy or sulky person". It could also be translated as "killjoy". a. Non capisco perché Luca sia sempre così musone; oggi non ha nemmeno risposto al mio saluto, come se fosse arrabbiato con il mondo. È successo qualcosa? → I don’t get why Luca is always so grumpy; today, he didn’t even respond to my greeting, as if he were angry at the world. Did something happen?

Question 153

Ghiotto (aggettivo)

Answer 153

→ greedy; juicy (information) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective "ghiotto", which means "greedy". When used to describe some information, it can mean "juicy". With the verb "essere", it can mean to be fond of something, as in our example below: Mio figlio da piccolo era ghiotto di caramelle. Dovevo nasconderle affinché lui non le mangiasse. → When my son was little, he was fond of sweets. I used to hide them so that he wouldn’t eat them.

Question 154

Sveltina (nome femminile)

Answer 154

→ a quickie Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la sveltina", which means "a quickie". a. La mia collega sospetta che il marito la tradisca. Così oggi ha deciso di seguirlo durante la pausa pranzo e ha scoperto che il marito se ne andava in hotel a farsi una sveltina con la sua segretaria! → My colleague suspects her husband is cheating on her. So, today she decided to follow him during her lunch break, and she discovered her husband was heading to a hotel to have a quickie with his secretary!

Question 155

Arrostire castagne (espressione)

Answer 155

→ to roast chestnuts Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression "arrostire castagne", which means "to roast chestnuts". Take note that "arrostire" is an -isc- verb (like preferire). Do you enjoy roasted chestnuts during the holiday period? In Rome, you often encounter sellers roasting chestnuts on the sidewalk during the holiday season in Italy. a. A Roma si sa che Natale è arrivato quando i venditori arrostiscono castagne per strada e te le vendono per pochi centesimi. → In Rome you know Christmas has arrived when vendors are roasting chestnuts on the street, and they sell them to you for just a few cents.

Question 156

Fare/disfare il fiocco

Answer 156

→ to tie/untie the bow Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "fare/disfare il fiocco", which means "to tie/untie the bow". I don’t know about you, but making bows for presents is not a pleasant task for me. No matter how many times my mother has shown me, I still can’t do it! a. Mia madre me l’ha dimostrato un sacco di volte, ma io non so fare il fiocco per i regali! Perché non posso comprare tutti i regali online e far fare a qualcun altro i fiocchi al mio posto? → My mother showed me many times, but I do not know how to tie the bow for the presents! Why can’t I buy all my gifts online and have someone else tie the bows for me?

Question 157

Columba (nome femminile)

Answer 157

→ a dove Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la colomba", which means "a dove". Do not confuse "la colomba" with the noun "il colombo", which means "a pigeon". Pigeons are common in Italy, especially in the piazzas and busy squares. You will often see overhangs in buildings protected by spikes to keep the pigeons from perching. a. Il mago al teatro ha fatto un bel gioco di prestigio con una gabbia piena di colombe. Le mette dentro una piccola scatola, le copre con un fazzoletto colorato e poi spariscono! È un trucco da vedere. Mi chiedo come faccia! → The magician at the theater did a trick with a cageful of doves. He puts them inside a small box, covers them with a colored handkerchief, and then they disappear! It is a trick you must see! I wonder how he does it!

Question 158

Puma (nome maschile)

Answer 158

→ a cougar, a puma Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il puma" ("il coguaro" is less common), which means "a cougar" or "a puma". Note that "il puma" is a masculine noun due to its Quechua (through the Spanish language) origins. a. Mio zio è arrabbiato perché le sue galline spariscono. Crede che le mangi una volpe ma mio cugino ha visto un puma vicino al pollaio. → My uncle is angry because his chickens are disappearing. He thinks a fox is eating them, but my cousin saw a cougar near the hen house.

Question 159

Corvo (nome maschile)

Answer 159

→ a crow Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il corvo", which means "a crow". a. Voglio abbattere l’albero fuori dalla finestra della mia camera. Ogni mattina un gruppo di corvi gracchia mentre si posa sui rami e mi sveglia presto! Sono proprio disperato! → I want to chop down the tree outside of my bedroom window. Every morning a group of crows caw while perched on the branches and wake me up early! I am really desperate!

Question 160

Razza (nome femminile)

Answer 160

→ a stingray Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la razza", pronounced "radza", which means "a stingray". Pay attention to the pronunciation! While "la razza" can also mean "a race (of people)", the pronunciation of the two words are different: "la ratza" when it means "race", "la radza" when it means "a stingray". [The Italian word for "rocket" (engine) is "il razzo". Don’t confuse"razzo" with the word "la razza", which can mean race as in "the human race" (la razza umana) or breed (when referring to animals, like dogs, cats, horses, etc.).] a. State attenti quando andate al mare! I bagnini ci hanno avvisato che le razze amano nascondersi sotto la sabbia quando si riposano. Non mordono ma l’aculeo è velenoso. Guardate dove mettete i piedi! → Pay attention when you go to the beach! The lifreguards warned us that the stingrays love to hide under the sand when they are resting. They don’t bite, but its sting is poisonous. Watch where you step!

Question 161

Lama (nome maschile)

Answer 161

→ a llama Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il lama", which means "a llama". Most Americans might know the llama from a popular Sesame Street video. a. Hai mai visto Sesame Street? Una canzone famosa per bambini all’interno del programma si chiama Io e il mio lama. Parla di una bambina che porta il suo lama dal veterinario per una visita. → Have you ever seen Sesame Street? A famous children’s song during the program is called “Me and my llama.” It is about a child that brings her llama to the vet’s office for a check-up.

Question 162

Idoneo (aggettivo)

Answer 162

→ fit, able-bodied; → fit or suitable Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective "idoneo", which means "fit" or "able-bodied". It can also mean "fit" or "suitable". a. Che bello! Il dottore che mi ha visitato ha detto che sono idoneo a svolgere attività fisica e da domani posso iniziare ad allenarmi per la maratona! → How wonderful! The doctor who saw me said that I am fit to do physical exercise and starting tomorrow I can start training for the marathon!

Question 163

Mettersi nei panni di + qualcuno (espressione)

Answer 163

→ to put oneself or to be in someone else’s shoes Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression "mettersi nei panni di + qualcuno", which means "to put oneself or to be in someone else’s shoes". The expression literally means "to put oneself in someone else’s clothing". a. Non deve essere facile essere il capo, a volte provo a mettermi nei suoi panni e credo che ci voglia molta determinazione per gestire un’attività commerciale, i dipendenti e i clienti. Io non so se riuscirei a gestire tutte quelle lamentele! → It must not be easy being the boss, at times I try to put myself in his shoes, and I believe it takes a lot of determination to manage a business, employees, and clients. I don’t know if I would be able to manage all of those complaints!

Question 164

Farsela sotto (espressione)

Answer 164

→ to chicken out or to be very nervous/afraid of something Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression "farsela sotto", which means to chicken out or to be very nervous/afraid of something. a. Ma è possibile che ogni volta che hai un esame te la fai sotto dalla paura? Non è la fine del mondo, ormai sei all’università da 3 anni e dovresti sapere come gestire quest’ansia. Rilassati, andrà bene! → But is it possible that every time you have a test you chicken out from fear? It is not the end of the world, have now been at university for three years, and you should know how to manage your anxiety. Relax, it will go well!

Question 165

Farcela (verbo pronomiale)

Answer 165

→ to manage; to succeed Today’s Parola del Giorno is the pronominal verb "farcela", which means "to manage" or "to succeed". You will often hear it used in a variety of expressions, such as: a. Non ce la faccio più! → I have had it!; I can’t take anymore! b. Gli sciatori sono rimasti bloccati in pista per due giorni. Alla TV che li ha intervistati, hanno detto che ormai erano convinti che non ce l’avrebbero fatta e sarebbero morti lassù. Per fortuna sono stati tratti in salvo! → The skiers were trapped on the slope for two days. On the TV station that interviewed them, they said that now they were convinced they wouldn’t have made it and would have died up there. Luckily, they were gotten to safety!

Question 166

Vercela (con qualcuno) (verbo pronomiale)

Answer 166

→ to have it in for someone; to be angry with someone Today’s Parola del Giorno is the pronominal verb "avercela (con qualcuno)", which means "to have it in for someone" or "to be angry with someone". This is a common pronominal verb that you will hear often in Italian, and you will often hear it used. a. Mia moglie non mi parla da due giorni. Ce l’ha con me perché le avevo detto che sabato l’avrei aiutata a pulire tutta la casa e invece sono andato a giocare a calcio con i miei amici. Non so come farmi perdonare! → My wife has not speaking to me for two days. She is angry with me because I had told her that on Saturday I would have helped her clean the whole house, and, instead, I went to play soccer with my friend. I don’t know how to get her to forgive me!

Question 167

Prenderci gusto (verbo pronomiale)

Answer 167

→ to acquire/develop a taste/liking for something Today’s Parola del Giorno is the pronominal verb "prenderci gusto", which means "to acquire/develop a taste/liking for something". a. La prima volta che sono salito su un cavallo avevo un po’ di paura: temevo di cadere e farmi male. Poi ci ho preso gusto e adesso è un’attività che mi piace moltissimo, non potrei rinunciarci! → The first time I got on a horse I was a bit scared: I feared falling and hurting myself. Then I developed a liking for it, and now it is an activity I like a lot, I could never give it up!

Question 168

Farla franca (verbo pronomiale)

Answer 168

→ to get away with something Today’s Parola del Giorno is the pronominal verb "farla franca", which means "to get away with something", in other words not being discovered or avoiding the consequences of some bad deed having been done (like thieves breaking into your home and never getting caught). a. I ladri sono entrati in casa della Signora Rossi alle 03:00 di mattina e si sono portati via tutti i gioielli della Signora. Nessuno in casa si è accorto di niente e i ladri l’hanno fatta franca con un bottino di più di quattromila Euro! → The thieves got into Mrs. Rossi’s house at 3:00 AM, and they stole all of the lady’s jewelry. No one at home realized anything, and the they got away with it with a more than 4,000 euro of loot! Grammar Note: Don’t forget that when the pronominal verb ends in "-la", the past participle in compound tenses remains in the feminine singular even when the verb is used in the plural (as in our example).

Question 169

Avere la coda di paglia (espressione)

Answer 169

→ to have a guilty conscience Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression "avere la coda di paglia", which means "to have a guilty conscience". a. Perché ti sei offeso così tanto quando ho chiesto che fine avessero fatto i miei biscotti? Hai la coda di paglia, per caso? Li hai mangiati tu? → Why are you offended so much when I asked what happened to my cookies? Do you have a guilty conscience, by any chance? Did you eat them?

Question 170

Non avere mezze misure (espressione)

Answer 170

→ to have no middle ground Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression non "avere mezze misure", which means "to have no middle ground". a. Paolo non ha mezze misure, o il lavoro che fa gli piace da impazzire o lo odia. Dovrebbe capire che può esprimere anche giudizi meno drastici. → Paolo has no middle ground, either he goes crazy about his job or he hates it. He should understand he can also express less drastic opinions.

Question 171

Saperla lunga (su qualcosa) (1) (espressione)

Answer 171

→ to know a thing or two (about something) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb expression "saperla lunga (su qualcosa)", which means "to know a thing or two (about something)". a. Stamattina la mia macchina non parte. Forse perché fa molto freddo. Prima di andare dal meccanico, chiedo un consiglio a mio padre. Lui la sa lunga sulle macchine! → This morning my car didn’t start. Perhaps because it was too cold. Before going to the mechanic, I asked my dad for some advice. He knows a thing or two about cars!

Question 172

Saperla lunga (su qualcosa) (2) (espressione)

Answer 172

→ to know a thing or two (about something) a. Quando si tratta di affari, Lucia la sa lunga: è riuscita a vendere il terreno che aveva comprato l’anno scorso al doppio del prezzo! → When it comes to business, Lucia knows a thing or two: she was able to sell the land she had bought last year at double the price!

Question 173

Pagliaio (nome maschile)

Answer 173

→ a haystack Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il pagliaio", which means "a haystack". a. Quando avrete raccolto tutte le foglie appassite dal giardino, accumulatele in un grande pagliaio, così sarà più facile pulire il giardino. → When you have collected all the dried leaves from the garden, pile them up into a large haystack so it will be easier to clean the garden.

Question 174

Fogliame (1) nome maschile)

Answer 174

→ foliage Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il fogliame", which means "foliage". "Il fogliame" is a Collective Noun (un nome collettivo) because it is singular but describes a collection of things, in this case a collection of plant leaves. a. Wow…guarda che colori! Il fogliame in montagna è bellissimo con tutti gli alberi colorati…sembra una di quelle cartoline che si trovano nei negozi! → Wow…look at these colors! The foliage in the mountains is very beautiful with all the colored trees…it seems like one of those postcards that you find in stores!

Question 175

Fogliame (2) nome maschile)

Answer 175

→ foliage Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il fogliame", which means "foliage". "Il fogliame" is a Collective Noun (un nome collettivo) because it is singular but describes a collection of things, in this case a collection of plant leaves. a. L’autunno era ormai arrivato e i marciapiedi della città si stavano riempiendo di fogliame giallo, arancione e rosso caduto dagli alberi. → Autumn has now arrived, and the city sidewalks were filling up with fallen yellow, orange and red foliage from the trees.

Question 176

Avere la pelle d’oca (espressione)

Answer 176

→ to have goosebumps Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "avere la pelle d’oca", which means "to have goosebumps". The expression literally means to have goose skin. a. Quando guardo un film dell’orrore e sento quella musica di suspense, ho la pelle d’oca perché è ovvio che qualcosa di orribile sta per accadere! → When I watch a horror film and hear the suspenseful music, I have goosebumps because it is obvious something horrible is about to happen!

Question 177

Lo sciroppo d’acero (nome maschile)

Answer 177

→ maple syrup Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "lo sciroppo d’acero", which means "maple syrup". a. In Nord America si mangiano i pancake con un po’ di burro e lo sciroppo d’acero! Il sapore dello sciroppo mi ricorda sempre questi mesi d’autunno! → In North America, pancakes are eaten with a bit of butter and maple syrup. The taste of the syrup always reminds me of these autumn months!

Question 178

Tiepido (aggettivo)

Answer 178

→ mild (of temperature) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective "tiepido", which means "mild" when discussing the temperature. a. Dopo un’estate calda e afosa le temperature tiepide dell’autunno sono benvenute! Mi piace dormire con le finestre aperte ed è sempre meglio quando non devo accendere l’aria condizionata. → After a hot and muggy summer, autumn’s mild temperatures are welcome! I like to sleep with the windows open, and it is always better when I do not have to turn on the air conditioning.

Question 179

Brina (nome femminile)

Answer 179

→ frost Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la brina", which means "frost". a. Alcune mattine d’autunno sono tipiche per la brina. I prati e le auto sembrano ghiacciati! Fortunatamente, la brina si scioglie appena esce il sole! → Frost is typical of some autumn mornings. The grass and the cars seem frosty. The frost luckily melts as soon as the sun comes out!

Question 180

Sbornia (nome femminile)

Answer 180

→ a bender Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la sbornia", which means "a bender". A bender is a wild drinking spree that someone might do when they are partying on vacation or perhaps are depressed or upset about something. In Italian, you can also say "prender(si) una sbornia", which means "to go on a bender". a. Giacomo e io siamo preoccupati per Tommaso. Tre giorni fa Lucia l’ha cacciato di casa e lui, depresso, è andato a bere in un locale. Dice che la sbornia è l’unico modo per calmare il suo dolore. → Giacomo and I are worried about Tommaso. Three days ago Lucia kicked him out of the house, and he, being depressed, went to drink in a bar. He says a bender is the only way for him to dull the pain.

Question 181

Fare un freddo cane (espressione)

Answer 181

→ to be freezing cold Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "fare un freddo cane", which means "to be freezing cold". It literally means "to be a cold dog". You will hear Italians say this a lot in the winter months to describe extremely cold weather. a. Lo scorso inverno faceva un freddo cane, ti ricordi che anche gli sportelli della macchina erano congelati e non potevamo aprirli? Mamma mia quanto freddo! → Last winter it was freezing cold, do you remember that the car windows were also frozen, and we couldn’t open them? Dang, what cold weather!

Question 182

Di nascosto da (espressione)

Answer 182

→ behind someone’s back Today’s Parola del Giorno is the prepositional phrase "di nascosto da", which means "behind someone’s back". a. I genitori di Marco sono molto arrabbiati con lui perché è andato al concerto di nascosto da loro, nonostante glielo avessero proibito. Quando torna sarà in punizione per un mese. → Marco’s parents are very angry with him because he went to the concert behind their back, although they had forbade him. When he returns, he will be grounded for a month.

Question 183

A forma di (locuzione preposizionale)

Answer 183

→ in the shape of; in the form of Today’s Parola del Giorno is the Prepositional Phrase (La Locuzione Preposizionale) "a forma di", which means "in the shape of" or "in the form of". Remember that with Le Locuzoni Preposizionali, you generally need a preposition at the beginning and at the end (although there might be an exception or two): a. Da bambina Martina andava al parco e si sdraiava sul prato a osservare le nuvole. La divertivano quelle a forma di animale, più di tutte. → As a young girl, Martina used to go to the park and lie down on the grass to watch the clouds. Those in the shape of an animal would amuse her more than anything.

Question 184

A scapito di (locuzione preposizionale)

Answer 184

→ to the detriment of Today’s Parola del Giorno is the Pepositional Phrase (La Locuzione Preposizionale) a scapito di, which means "to the detriment of". a. Il Professor Marino ha sgridato Michele perché non aveva studiato per l’esame oggi: “Passi troppe ore con i videogiochi a scapito dei tuoi compiti…vuoi essere bocciato in tutti i tuoi esami?” → Professor Marino scolded Michele because he hadn’t studied for today’s exam: “You spend too many hours with videogames to the detriment of your homework…do you want to fail all of your exams?”

Question 185

A metà (locuzione preposizionale)

Answer 185

→ in half Today’s Parola del Giorno is the prepositional phrase "a metà", which means "in half". a. Michele, non mangiare tutta la barretta di cioccolato! Tagliala a metà e danne una a tua sorella! → Michele, don’t eat the whole chocolate bar! Cut it in half and give your sister half of it!

Question 186

L’allegria primaverile (espressione)

Answer 186

→ spring fever Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun expression "l’allegria primaverile", which means "spring fever". a. Visto che la primavera sta per arrivare e il tempo è più piacevole, Maria preferisce stare in giro con i suoi amici. La professoressa dice che Maria è disattenta in classe. Magari “soffre” di allegria primaverile? → Since spring is about to arrive and the weather is more pleasant, Maria prefers to hang out with her friends. The teacher says Maria is thoughtless in class. Perhaps she is “suffering” from spring fever?

Question 187

L’equinizio di primavera

Answer 187

→ vernal equinox Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "l’equinizio di primavera", which means "vernal equinox". a. Nonostante la tradizione del giorno della marmotta, la primavera comincia ufficialmente con l’arrivo dell’equinizio di primavera; al calendario non interessa niente della marmotta che ha paura della sua ombra! → Despite the tradition of Groundhog Day, spring officially starts with the arrival of the vernal equinox; the calendar doesn’t care at all about the groundhog afraid of his shadow!

Question 188

Le calosce (nome feminnile plurale)

Answer 188

→ galoshes [galoshes or goloshes (pl n) (Clothing & Fashion) (sometimes singular) a pair of waterproof overshoes] Today’s Parola del Giorno is the plural noun "le calosce", which means "galoshes". a. Amo la primavera anche se piove spesso e sono costretto ad andare in giro con le calosce per proteggere le mie costose scarpe dall’acqua e dal fango. → I love spring even though it rains often, and I am forced to get around with galoshes to protect my expensive shoes from the water and mud.

Question 189

Pozzanghera (nome femminile)

Answer 189

→ a puddle Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "la pozzanghera", which means "a puddle". a. Martina e Giovanna sono comiche quando piove: dopo scuola camminano verso casa e saltano dentro a tutte le pozzanghere, dimostrando che la primavera è qui con le piogge che non finiscono mai! → Martina and Giovanna are funny when it rains: after school, they walk home and jump inside all the puddles, proving spring is here with the rainy season that never ends!

Question 190

Fiorire (verbo intransitivo)

Answer 190

→ to blossom Today’s Parola del Giorno is the verb "fiorire", which means "to blossom". The past participle is "fiorito". Do not forget that "fiorire" is an "-isc-" verb. a. I giardini di Roma sono bellissimi in primavera…tutti i fiori fioriscono e l’aria è profumata! → The gardens of Rome are beautiful in the spring…all the flowers are blossoming and the air is fragrant!

Question 191

Misurare la febbre a qualcuno (espressione)

Answer 191

→ to take someone’s temperature Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "misurare la febbre a qualcuno", which means "to take someone’s temperature". a. Quando mi sono svegliato oggi, non mi sentivo bene e mia madre mi ha misurato la febbre. Mi ha fatto stare a casa perché avevo una temperatura di 39 gradi. Forse ho l’influenza! → When I woke up today, I didn’t feel well, and my mother took my temperature. She had me stay home because I had a temperature of 102.2. Perhaps I have the flu!

Question 192

Avere la raucedine (espressione)

Answer 192

→ to be hoarse Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "avere la raucedine", which means "to be hoarse". "La raucedine" means "hoarsening (of the voice)". This is a peculiar expression that I had never heard until recently. a. Marco si è svegliato e non riusciva a parlare: era evidente che aveva la raucedine. Sentiva la sua voce “strana” e “forzata”. → Marco woke up and couldn’t talk: it was obvious he was hoarse. His voice sounded strange and forced.

Question 193

Vaccino (nome maschile)

Answer 193

→ a vaccine Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il vaccino", which means "a vaccine". a. Ogni ottobre vado dal medico per un vaccino contro l’influenza. Anche se ho paura dell’iniezione, preferisco essere protetto dal virus invece di stare a letto per una settimana! → Every October I go to the doctor’s office for a flu vaccine. Even if I am afraid of shots, I prefer to be protected from the virus instead of being in bed for a week!

Question 194

I brividi

Answer 194

→ the chills Today’s Parola del Giorno is the plural noun "i brividi", which means "the chills". a. Quando ho l’influenza non ho sempre la febbre. La cosa che mi dice che sono ammalato è la presenza dei brividi; sento freddo anche quando la temperatura della casa è alta. → When I have the flu, I don’t always have a fever. The thing that tells me I’m sick is the presence of the chills; I feel cold even when the inside temperature is high.

Question 195

Placcaggio (nome maschile)

Answer 195

→ a tackle Today’s second Parola del Giorno is the noun "il placcaggio", which means "a tackle". In American football, a tackle stops play, and the goal is to stop the ball from advancing at least ten yards so that the team with the ball uses up all their plays (downs). This word is important to understanding American football. a. Quel placcaggio ha fermato la partita quando sei giocatori si sono lanciati sull’avversario che correva con la palla verso la meta! → That tackle stopped the match when six players threw themselves on their opponent who was running with the ball towards the goal!

Question 196

Essere indisposto (espressione)

Answer 196

→ to be under the weather Today’s Parola del Giorno is the expression "essere indisposto", which means "to be under the weather". a. Stamattina ho deciso di stare a letto tutta la giornata perché mi sono svegliato con la febbre alta. Ho telefonato al capo e gli ho spiegato che sono indisposto. Non vado al lavoro oggi e forse domani. → This morning I decided to stay in bed all day because I woke up with a high fever. I phoned my boss and explained to him that I am under the weather. I am not going to work today and perhaps also tomorrow.

Question 197

Sconcertante (aggettivo)

Answer 197

→ bewildering; puzzling Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective "sconcertante", which means "bewildering" or "puzzling". a. Il telegiornale locale ha riportato la notizia di una anziana signora caduta mentre usciva dall’ospedale. Nessuno dei passanti si è fermato ad aiutarla. È sconcertante che siamo diventati così insensibili verso quello che ci circonda! → The local news reported a story about an elderly woman who fell while coming out of the hospital. None of the passersby stopped to help her. It is puzzling we have become so indifferent toward what goes on around us!

Question 198

Passato (nome maschile)

Answer 198

→ the past; → puree (cooking condiment) Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "il passato", which means "puree", like what you might make in the kitchen. Don’t forget that this noun can also mean "the past". a. Armando odia mangiare le verdure e mangia solo carne, pane e dolci. Sua moglie si preoccupa della sua salute. Per questo, adesso lei gli prepara i passati di verdure, che sono simili alle zuppe. → Armando hates eating vegetables and eats only meat, bread, and desserts. His wife worries about his health. Because of this, now she prepares vegetable purees for him, which are similar to soups.

Question 199

Svolazzante (aggettivo)

Answer 199

→ swirling Today’s Parola del Giorno is the adjective "svolazzante", which means "swirling". a. Quella scena con Marilyn Monroe con quella gonna svolazzante sopra la grata della metropolitana è mitica! È una delle scene più riconoscibili del cinema americano. → That scene with Marilyn Monroe with her swirling skirt above the subway grate is legendary! It is one of the most recognizable scenes in American cinema.

Question 200

Svampito/a (aggettivo, nome maschile, femminile)

Answer 200

→ airhead Today’s Parola del Giorno is the noun "lo svampito/la svampita", which means "airhead". This noun is also an adjective, too. a. Perché in tv non possono assumere persone normali, che si vedono per strada? Invece assumono questi svampiti – uomini e donne superficiali e “belli” – che non hanno niente in testa. → Why don’t they ever hire normal people that you see on street for TV? Instead they hire these airheads – superficial and “beautiful” men and women – that have nothing upstairs.