gomma da masticare
/ˈɡom.ma da mas.tiˈka.re/word by word
The English phrase bubblegum is translated into Italian as gomma da masticare.
The term refers to the substance known as chewing gum.
Meaning: chewing gum (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase gomma da masticare is composed of gomma (gum/rubber) and the prepositional phrase da masticare (to chew/for chewing).
Which one should you use?
cicca is a common colloquialism used to refer to a piece of chewing gum or a used piece of gum.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 5 syllables, with the stress on the first syllable. The IPA pronunciation is /ˈɡom.ma da mas.tiˈka.re/.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers might mistakenly use bolla (bubble) to try to say 'bubblegum', but gomma da masticare is the correct term for the substance itself.
Did you know?
- The colloquial word cicca is used not only for gum but also to describe a cigarette butt.
- In Italian, gomma refers to both chewing gum and a pencil eraser.
- The verb masticare comes from the Greek word μαστιχάω, which literally describes the action of 'grinding the teeth'.
Examples in context
- Vuoi una gomma da masticare?Do you want some bubblegum?
- Ho comprato della gomma da masticare alla fragola.I bought strawberry bubblegum.
- Non ho più gomma da masticare in tasca.I don't have any more bubblegum in my pocket.
Example conversation
Martina and Alessandro are walking to class.
- MartinaAlessandro, hai una gomma da masticare?Alessandro, do you have some bubblegum?
- AlessandroSì, ne ho una alla menta.Yes, I have a mint one.
- MartinaPosso averla? Grazie mille!Can I have it? Thanks a lot!
- AlessandroPrego, Martina.You're welcome, Martina.
