Italian, known for its melodiousness and expressive nature, is also a language rich in humorous and intriguing idiomatic expressions. These phrases often leave learners both baffled and amused. Let’s delve into some of the funniest Italian idiomatic expressions that not only enhance your vocabulary but also give you a peek into the cultural nuances of Italy.
In bocca al lupo (Into the wolf’s mouth)
This is the Italian way of wishing someone “Good luck.” It’s akin to the English expression “Break a leg.” The appropriate response to this is “Crepi il lupo!” meaning “May the wolf die!”
Prima dell’esame, mia madre mi ha detto: “In bocca al lupo!”
Essere in un bel pasticcio (To be in a beautiful mess)
This expression is used when someone finds themselves in a complicated or messy situation.
Dopo aver provato a riparare la macchina da solo, Carlo si è trovato in un bel pasticcio.
Non vedere l’ora (Not seeing the hour)
This phrase expresses a strong eagerness or anticipation for something to happen, similar to the English “can’t wait.”
Non vedo l’ora di andare in vacanza in Italia quest’estate!
Acqua in bocca! (Water in the mouth!)
This idiom is the Italian way of saying “Keep it a secret” or “Don’t spill the beans.”
Ho un piano speciale per il compleanno di Laura, ma acqua in bocca!
Fare le corna (To make the horns)
A superstitious gesture in Italy, similar to knocking on wood, this is used to ward off bad luck or to wish someone good luck.
Quando ha comprato il biglietto della lotteria, ha fatto le corna, sperando di vincere.
Prendere fischi per fiaschi (To take whistles for flasks)
This comical expression means to misunderstand or to get things wrong.
Durante la lezione di italiano, ho preso fischi per fiaschi e ho risposto in modo completamente sbagliato.
Chiudere bottega (To close the shop)
Used to indicate ending a business or ceasing an activity, much like the English “close up shop.”
Dopo tanti anni, ha deciso di chiudere bottega e andare in pensione.
Costare un occhio della testa (To cost an eye from the head)
An amusing way to say something is very expensive, similar to “cost an arm and a leg.”
Quel vestito è bellissimo, ma costa un occhio della testa!
Attaccare bottone (To attach a button)
This quirky idiom means to start a conversation, often used when someone talks at length, not letting the other person leave.
Alla festa, un uomo ha attaccato bottone con me e non smetteva di parlare.
Piantala! (Plant it!)
An informal expression similar to the English “Cut it out!” or “Stop it!”
Se continui a comportarti così, ti dico, piantala!
Tirare il pacco (To throw the package)
This means to stand someone up or not show up to an appointment or date.
Mario doveva venire alla festa ieri sera, ma ha tirato il pacco all’ultimo minuto.
Essere al verde (To be at the green)
This phrase is used to indicate that someone is out of money or broke.
Dopo aver speso tanto in vacanza, sono completamente al verde.
Mettere il carro davanti ai buoi (To put the cart before the oxen)
This expression is used to describe doing things in the wrong order, akin to “putting the cart before the horse.”
Stai mettendo il carro davanti ai buoi decidendo il nome del tuo negozio prima di avere un business plan.
Far ridere i polli (To make the chickens laugh)
This idiom is used when something is so absurd or ridiculous that even the chickens would laugh.
Il suo tentativo di cantare l’opera ha fatto ridere i polli.
Each of these expressions encapsulates a bit of Italian culture, adding color and humor to the language. By integrating these idioms into your conversations, not only will you sound more like a native, but you’ll also bring smiles and maybe even some laughter to those around you. Enjoy the lively and playful nature of Italian as you continue to learn and explore its nuances!
