parolacce
The English phrase "bad words" is translated into Italian as parolacce.
parolacce refers to bad words. To express the act of swearing, the standard phrase is dire parolacce, using the verb dire (to say or tell). While some people use mild alternatives like Cavolo! (similar to "darn" or "dang"), Accidenti! ("darn it!" or "gee!") or the euphemism Porca miseria! (literally "pig's misery"), other terms are much more explicit. For example, Cazzo! is a common profanity used to express anger, frustration, surprise or as an intensifier. Stronzo! is an insult meaning "a**hole". And Merda! is used to express disgust or disappointment.
What does it mean word for word?
The word parolacce is a compound of parola (word) and the pejorative feminine plural suffix -acce, literally meaning "big bad words".
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of the noun is parolaccia, while parolacce is the plural form.
Did you know?
- Italian profanity often involves 'bestemmia', which is the act of using religious terms in a 'bad word' context, and is considered much more offensive than standard 'parolacce'.
- In Italy, gestures are often used as silent parolacce. A specific hand signal can convey a vulgar insult without the speaker uttering a single word.
- While parolacce are generally frowned upon in formal settings, using certain profanities among close friends can actually signal trust and intimacy in some Italian social circles.
Examples in context
- Dice continuamente parolacce.He's constantly saying bad words.This sentence is useful for describing someone who is constantly saying parolacce.Tatoeba #11574395 by Nuel, translation #11574393 by Nuel
- Non dire parolacce davanti ai bambini.Don't say bad words in front of the children.
- Il film era pieno di parolacce.The movie was full of bad words.
Example conversation
Lorenzo is upset because he stubbed his toe in the kitchen.
- MartinaLorenzo, non usare le parolacce!Lorenzo, don't use bad words!
- LorenzoScusa, Martina, mi sono fatto male.Sorry, Martina, I hurt myself.
- MartinaCapisco, ma le parolacce non aiutano.I understand, but bad words don't help.
- LorenzoHai ragione, cercherò di stare calmo.You are right, I will try to stay calm.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
