tosto
The Italian word for badass is tosto.
tosto is used to describe someone or something that has an extreme or tough appearance that is considered admirable. In Italian slang, you may also encounter the word figo to describe someone who is cool, impressive or even badass.
Meaning: having an extreme appearance, etc., considered admirable (adj)
Did you know?
- While tosto describes a tough persona, the word figo literally translates to 'fig tree'.
- Its Latin root, tostus, refers to something 'parched' or 'scorched' by the sun, much like the English word 'toast'.
- While tosto is a compliment for strength, using it to describe food would actually be a complaint about it being stale or overcooked.
Examples in context
- Quel pilota è davvero tosto.That pilot is really badass.
- Hai un look molto tosto.You have a very badass look.
- Il nuovo film ha un protagonista tosto.The new movie has a badass protagonist.
Example conversation
Alessandro and Martina are looking at a photo of a rock star.
- AlessandroGuarda quel chitarrista, è troppo tosto!Look at that guitarist, he is so badass!
- MartinaSì, ha un'aria davvero imponente.Yes, he has a really imposing air.
- AlessandroAdoro il suo stile così tosto.I love his badass style.
- MartinaÈ vero, è molto affascinante.It's true, he is very charming.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries tosto, CC BY-SA 4.0.
