coprirsi bene
To bundle up in Italian is to say coprirsi bene.
Meaning: to dress in warm clothes (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The expression consists of the reflexive verb coprirsi, which means to cover oneself and the adverb bene, meaning well.
How does it change in a sentence?
If you want to describe a person who is already bundled up using a past participle or adjective, use coperto bene.
Did you know?
- In Italy, the advice to coprirsi bene is frequently given by older generations even when the weather seems mild. This stems from a widespread cultural belief that a sudden 'draft' of cold air is a direct cause of the flu.
- While coprirsi bene is the standard phrase, Italians may use the word fasciarsi to describe bundling up so tightly that one feels wrapped like a mummy.
- The word bene in this phrase shares the same Latin root as the English word 'beneficial'. In both languages, the word is not just about quality, but carries a sense of being 'good' or 'right' for the situation.
Examples in context
- Copriti bene, fa molto freddo oggi!Bundle up, it's very cold today!
Example conversation
Alessandro and Giulia are getting ready to go outside in winter.
- AlessandroFa molto freddo fuori, Giulia.It is very cold outside, Giulia.
- GiuliaSì, devo coprirsi bene prima di uscire.Yes, I must bundle up before going out.
- AlessandroPrendi anche la sciarpa e i guanti.Take the scarf and gloves too.
- GiuliaHai ragione, così sono al caldo.You are right, this way I'll be warm.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bene, CC BY-SA 4.0.
