carne secca
/ˈkar.ne ˈsek.ka/word by word
The English phrase beef jerky is translated into Italian as carne secca.
carne secca is a generic term that refers to any type of dried meat. Because beef jerky is an American snack, Italians often use the English term 'beef jerky' when referring specifically to the flavored, snack-style strips found in international shops.
Meaning: Translations (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of carne (meat) and secca (dry/dried).
Which one should you use?
While carne secca is the literal translation for beef jerky, it is a generic term that can refer to any type of dried meat, not just beef.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ˈkar.ne ˈsek.ka/. It consists of 4 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- The word carne shares an ancient root with the English word 'carve', as both come from a prehistoric term meaning 'to cut off'.
- Traditionally, Italian dried meats are seasoned primarily with salt and pepper, unlike the sweet or spicy marinades common in American 'beef jerky'.
- While carne secca is the general term, Italy has regional specialties like carne secca di montagna from the Alps, which is often smoked rather than just dried.
Examples in context
- Vorrei comprare della carne essiccata di manzo.I would like to buy some beef jerky.
- Mi piace la carne secca.I like beef jerky.
- Hai della carne secca in borsa?Do you have some beef jerky in your bag?
- Questa carne secca è molto salata.This beef jerky is very salty.
Example conversation
Martina and Alessandro are hiking in the mountains.
- MartinaHo molta fame, Alessandro.I am very hungry, Alessandro.
- AlessandroPrendi un po' di carne secca.Have some beef jerky.
- MartinaGrazie, è perfetta per la salita.Thanks, it's perfect for the climb.
- AlessandroSì, ti darà un po' di energia.Yes, it will give you some energy.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (carne, secca) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries carne, CC BY-SA 4.0.
