ciao bello
/ˈt͡ʃa.o ˈbɛl.lo/word by word
ciao bello is the Italian way to say "bye handsome".
This phrase is used to say goodbye to a man while including a compliment about his appearance. Although it is a compliment, be aware that the meaning can change to being sarcastic or patronizing depending on the tone of voice you use.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ciao (bye/hi) and bello (handsome/beautiful).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
This phrase is highly informal and is typically used between friends, romantic partners or in a flirtatious context.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ˈtʃa.o ˈbɛl.lo/. It has 4 syllables, and the stress is on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- The word ciao actually has its roots in the word for 'slave', originating from the Venetan expression 's-ciao vostro', which meant 'I am your slave' or 'I am at your service'.
- In Italy, using ciao bello with a complete stranger can be perceived as an aggressive 'power move' or a way of talking down to someone, even without a sarcastic tone.
- The adjective bello can be used in the expression bell’aspetto to describe someone who looks healthy and vibrant, rather than just physically attractive.
Examples in context
- Ciao, belloBye, handsome
- Allora, bellissimo, ci vediamo dopoWell then, very handsome, see you later
- Ciao bello, a domani!Bye handsome, see you tomorrow!
- Sì, ciao bello, buona serata.Yes, bye handsome, have a good evening.
- Ciao bello, ci vediamo dopo.Bye handsome, we will see each other later.
Example conversation
Martina is leaving Francesco's house after a date.
- FrancescoGrazie per la serata, Martina.Thank you for the evening, Martina.
- MartinaGrazie a te, Francesco. Ciao bello!Thank you, Francesco. Bye handsome!
- FrancescoCiao, a presto!Bye, see you soon!
- MartinaA presto!See you soon!
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (ciao, bello) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bello, ciao, CC BY-SA 4.0.
