Salute!
everyday
When someone sneezes in Italian you say Salute!, which means "health". It is the standard reaction and works with everyone. It is also called Dio ti benedica.
Meaning: said after a sneeze (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Italian | Note |
|---|---|
| Salute! | everyday |
| Dio ti benedica | religious, less common |
The sneezer usually replies Grazie. If someone sneezes a few times in a row, people may repeat Salute.
Which one should you use?
Dio ti benedica is the literal "God bless you". It exists but sounds religious, so most people choose the short Salute!
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
With someone you address formally, Salute! is still fine, and you do not have to change anything.
Did you know?
- The same word salute is the toast said when drinking, which is why one Italian word covers both sneezes and cheers.
Examples in context
- Salute, MarcoBless you, Marco
- Grazie, mi sa che sono raffreddatoThanks, I think I have a cold
Example conversation
Marco sneezes during a lesson and his friend Giulia reacts.
- MarcoEtciù!Achoo!
- GiuliaSalute!Bless you!
- MarcoGrazie, sono raffreddato.Thanks, I have a cold.
