ragazzo grande
/raˈɡat.t͡so ˈɡran.de/word by word
The English phrase 'big boy' can be translated into Italian as ragazzo grande.
In Italian, ragazzo grande is used to refer to an independent adult male.
Meaning: An independent adult male (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
It consists of 5 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable.
Did you know?
- The word ragazzo might trace its roots back to the Arabic word raqqāṣ, which refers to a 'courier' or 'delivery boy'.
- The word ragazzo is also used to mean 'boyfriend', meaning il mio ragazzo can translate to either 'my boy' or 'my boyfriend'.
- To describe a man who is truly 'a big boy' in terms of physical size and strength, an Italian might use the word bestione instead of ragazzo grande.
Examples in context
- Che ragazzo grande che è!What a big boy he is!Tatoeba #2596756 by Guybrush88, translation #843925 by J_S
- Non sei più un bambino, sei un ragazzo grande.You are not a child anymore, you are a big boy.
Example conversation
Giulia is talking to Matteo about his new responsibilities.
- GiuliaPuoi fare tutto da solo, Matteo.You can do everything by yourself, Matteo.
- MatteoSì, non ho bisogno di aiuto.Yes, I don't need help.
- GiuliaVedo che sei diventato un ragazzo grande.I see that you have become a big boy.
- MatteoGrazie, Giulia!Thanks, Giulia!
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (ragazzo, grande) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries grande, ragazzo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
