di classe
/di ˈklas.se/word by word
The English word 'classy' can be translated into Italian as di classe.
Di classe is used to describe something as elegant and fashionable. It can be applied to both people, referring to their behavior or manner and to inanimate objects, referring to their design or style.
Meaning: elegant and fashionable (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the preposition di (of) and the noun classe (class).
Which one should you use?
While the word elegante refers specifically to outward appearance or style, di classe often implies a level of sophistication, breeding or social grace in a person's character.
How does it change in a sentence?
Unlike most adjectives in Italian, di classe is an invariable phrase and does not change its form to agree with gender or number.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /di ˈklas.se/. It has three syllables, and the stress is on the second syllable.
Did you know?
- The Latin root of classe originally referred to a division of the Roman navy rather than a social rank. It comes from classis, meaning a fleet of ships.
- If you want to describe a specific kind of 'classy' behavior where someone makes a difficult task look easy, you should use the word sprezzatura. This term captures the art of effortless sophistication that goes beyond just being 'di classe'.
- Italians frequently use the French loan-phrase bon ton when discussing the specific rules of etiquette that make a person di classe.
Examples in context
- La lezione è di classe.The lesson is classy.This sentence shows how to use di classe to describe a lesson.Tatoeba #13282475 by Guybrush88, translation #9499120 by jayrod84
- Tom è un tipo di classe.Tom is a classy guy.This sentence shows how to use di classe to describe a person.Tatoeba #5185601 by Guybrush88, translation #4494852 by CK
- Il suo abito è davvero elegante.Her dress is really classy.
- Il ristorante offre un'atmosfera raffinata.The restaurant offers a classy atmosphere.
- Quel gioiello è veramente di classe.That piece of jewelry is truly classy.
- Ha uno stile davvero chic.He/she has a really classy style.
- La sua casa è molto elegante.His/her house is very classy.
- Questo vestito è veramente raffinato.This dress is truly classy.
- Quel vestito è davvero di classe.That dress is truly classy.
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Francesco and Martina are looking at a fashion magazine in a cafe.
- FrancescoGuarda questa borsa, è molto di classe.Look at this bag, it is very classy.
- MartinaSì, è un modello molto elegante.Yes, it is a very elegant model.
- FrancescoSarebbe perfetta per te, Martina.It would be perfect for you, Martina.
- MartinaGrazie, Francesco, sei molto gentile.Thank you, Francesco, you are very kind.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (di, classe) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries classe, di, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
