fai il bravo
The Italian phrase for the instruction to "be good" is fai il bravo.
This phrase is an instruction told to a child to behave properly and follow the rules. While the English "be good" can refer to a person's general character, fai il bravo specifically refers to behaving well in a given moment.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, fai il bravo translates to "do the brave one" or "act the good one".
How does it change in a sentence?
The form fai il bravo uses the imperative singular and is used when speaking to one child. When telling a group of children to be good, use the plural form fate i bravi.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use sii buono to mean "behave yourself". However, sii buono actually means "be a kind/good person" in terms of character and quality.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Siate buoni e rispettate le regole.Be good and follow the rules.
- Sii bravo con tua sorella.Be good to your sister.
- Sii buona amica e ascoltami.Be a good friend and listen to me.
- Fai il bravo a scuola.Be good at school.
- Fai il bravo con la nonna.Be good with grandma.
- Fai il bravo mentre non ci sono.Be good while I am not there.
Example conversation
A mother is leaving her young son at his father's house.
- MatteoCiao, arrivederci!Bye, see you later!
- GiuliaFai il bravo con papà, tesoro.Be good with daddy, honey.
- MatteoSì, mamma, lo prometto.Yes, mommy, I promise.
- GiuliaVa bene, a presto!Alright, see you soon!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bravo, fai, il, CC BY-SA 4.0.
