statti attentu
To say "be careful" in Sicilian, use statti attentu.
The phrase is used as a warning to tell someone to avoid danger or be cautious.
What does it mean word for word?
statti attentu literally means "stay attentive" or "stay focused".
Which one should you use?
statti attentu is a direct warning addressed to an individual, while stari attenti refers to the general concept of being careful.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase changes based on whom you are addressing: use statti attenta to tell a female to be careful, and the infinitive form is stari attenti.
Did you know?
- While statti attentu is used for danger, Sicilians often use the phrase accura as a more urgent, visceral warning to be careful or to watch out.
- While 'statti attentu' warns of physical danger, you might also hear it used to warn someone they are being too nosey or intrusive in private affairs.
- While statti attentu is the standard, some older generations may use phrases involving occhiu, meaning 'eye', to tell someone to be careful.
Examples in context
- Statti attentu a ddu cani.Be careful of that dog.
- Statti attentu ca a strada è bagnata.Be careful because the road is wet.
Example conversation
Antonio is helping Maria carry a heavy box.
- AntonioStatti attentu, Maria, è pisanti!Be careful, Maria, it is heavy!
- MariaHai ragioni, m'aiuta a purtari?You are right, can you help me carry it?
- AntonioSì, pigghialu d'u ritu.Yes, take it from the back.
- MariaVa bene, ora è chiù facili.Alright, now it is easier.
