i migliori auguri
The Italian phrase for "best wishes" is i migliori auguri.
i migliori auguri is used to express hope for someone's happiness or success, particularly on special occasions. While this is a complete phrase, Italians frequently use the single word auguri as a shorthand to express best wishes for birthdays, holidays or achievements. For a more versatile and common way to say best wishes, you can also use Tanti Auguri. If you want to wish someone good luck specifically, use In Bocca al Lupo.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of the masculine plural article i (the), the superlative adjective migliori (best) and the noun auguri (wishes/congratulations).
Which one should you use?
While "best wishes" in English is often used as a closing in letters, the Italian auguri is more commonly used as a direct exclamation or greeting during celebrations.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Sicily, Bona Pasqua is used specifically on Easter Day.
How does it change in a sentence?
When expressing wishes to someone, use the verb fare rather than dare. For example, you use the phrase fare gli auguri to mean "to give/express wishes."
When do people say it?
Auguroni is a playful and informal way to say "big wishes" in Italian.
Did you know?
- If someone tells you in bocca al lupo, the correct response is not 'thank you' but crepi!, which literally means 'may the wolf die'.
- The word auguri shares a root with the Latin 'augur', a religious official who interpreted the will of the gods by observing the flight of birds.
- While auguri is used for celebrations, wishing someone 'good luck' with buona fortuna can sometimes be seen as tempting fate or bringing bad luck.
Examples in context
- La prossima volta che la vedi, falle i migliori auguri da parte mia.Next time you see her, give her my best wishes.This sentence shows how to use i migliori auguri when relaying wishes from one person to another.Tatoeba #1541555 by Guybrush88, translation #242398 by CM
Example conversation
Giulia and Francesco are talking about a mutual friend's wedding.
- GiuliaDomani è il matrimonio di Marco.Tomorrow is Marco's wedding.
- FrancescoSì, voglio mandargli i migliori auguri.Yes, I want to send him my best wishes.
- GiuliaFaremo un regalo insieme?Shall we get a gift together?
- FrancescoCerto, è una bellissima idea.Sure, that's a great idea.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries auguri, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
