ambiente
/amˈbjɛn.te/
The English adjective "ambient" (used to describe music that creates an atmosphere) is translated into Italian as ambiente.
In Italian, ambiente is used as an adjective to describe something that evokes or creates a certain atmosphere. However, when referring specifically to the modern music genre, Italians often use the English loanword ambient as a noun.
Meaning: (music) evoking or creating an atmosphere (adj)
Which one should you use?
While ambiente is the adjective used for creating an atmosphere, it is also the standard Italian term for "environment" or "surroundings" in a general context. In contrast, when discussing the specific musical genre, the English loanword ambient is used instead of the Italian word.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /amˈbjɛn.te/. It has 3 syllables, with the stress on the second syllable.
Did you know?
- In Italian interior design, an ambiente does not just mean the general atmosphere but can refer to a specific single room or living space.
- If you are looking for 'ambient music' in an Italian record store, asking for musica d'ambiente might result in a confused clerk, as they will likely point you toward 'background music' for restaurants.
- The Italian word ambientare is a verb derived from ambiente used to mean 'to set the scene' or 'to place a story in a specific location'.
Examples in context
- La musica ambientaleThe ambient music
- Il rumore ambientaleThe ambient noise
- Degli effetti sonori ambientali rilassantiRelaxing ambient sound effects
- Amo l'illuminazione d'atmosfera in questo ristorante.I love the ambient lighting in this restaurant.
- Lei crea musica ambientale utilizzando vari strumenti.She creates ambient music using various instruments.
- C'è un po' di musica ambiente in palestra.There is some ambient music in the gym.
- Questo locale usa solo musica ambiente.This venue only uses ambient music.
Example conversation
Sofia and Francesco are choosing music for a small gallery opening.
- SofiaFrancesco, quale musica mettiamo per l'evento?Francesco, what music should we put on for the event?
- FrancescoPenso che una musica ambiente sia l'ideale.I think some ambient music would be ideal.
- SofiaHai ragione, non deve disturbare i visitatori.You're right, it shouldn't disturb the visitors.
- FrancescoEsatto, cerco subito una playlist ambiente.Exactly, I'll look for an ambient playlist right away.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ambiente, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
