fratello
standard
The standard Italian word for "brother" is fratello. The slang short form is fra, used by young people for a brother or close friend. It is also called Fratellone.
Meaning: brother or close friend, casually (noun)
Ways to say it
| Italian | Note |
|---|---|
| fratello | standard |
| fra | slang, youth |
| Fratellone | big brother, affectionate |
Fra is mostly a way to address a friend, though it can also be used for a real brother in casual talk.
Which one should you use?
Fratellone means "big brother" and can sound affectionate or teasing.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural of fratello is fratelli.
Did you know?
- The plural fratelli can mean "brothers" or "brothers and sisters", depending on context.
Examples in context
- Mio fratello abita a Napoli.My brother lives in Naples.
- Fra, mi aiuti?Bro, can you help me?
- Sei il mio fratellone preferito.You are my favorite big brother.
Example conversation
Marco calls his younger brother Nico to ask for a ride in Bari.
- MarcoFra, mi passi a prendere?Bro, can you pick me up?
- NicoCerto, fratello.Sure, brother.
- MarcoGrazie, sei il migliore.Thanks, you are the best.
