ballo
/ˈbal.lo/
The English phrase 'dancing' is translated into Italian as ballo.
ballo is a noun that refers to the activity of dancing. When used as Il ballo, it specifically refers to dancing as a structured activity, such as ballroom dancing or choreographed routines.
Meaning: activity of dancing (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables with the stress on the first syllable: /ˈbal.lo/.
When do people say it?
A notable example of a traditional lively dance from southern Italy, particularly associated with the regions of Campania and Apulia, is the tarantella.
Did you know?
- In a metaphorical sense, ballo is used in the expression essere in ballo, meaning that something is at stake or at risk.
- Because ballo comes from the same root as 'ballet', the related Italian word danza is often used for more artistic or classical forms of movement.
- If you want to describe a 'dance floor', you would say pista da ballo, which literally translates to 'track for dancing'.
Examples in context
- Tom è un insegnante di ballo.Tom is a dancing teacher.This sentence illustrates the use of ballo when referring to a teacher of the activity.Tatoeba #5598662 by Guybrush88, translation #5598512 by CK
- C'è un libro di ballo sulla scrivania.There's a book about dancing on the desk.This sentence shows how ballo can be used in the context of a book about the subject.Tatoeba #1851478 by hitori37, translation #1396377 by CK
- Durante la cerimonia, gli ospiti hanno potuto ammirare la grazia della danza.During the ceremony, the guests were able to admire the grace of dancing.
- Andiamo a ballare stasera?Are we going dancing tonight?
- La tarantella è una danza tradizionale molto divertente del sud Italia.The tarantella is a traditional and very entertaining dance from southern Italy.
- Il ballo è la mia passione.Dancing is my passion.
Example conversation
Chiara and Francesco are talking about a local dance class.
- ChiaraTi piace il ballo?Do you like dancing?
- FrancescoSì, adoro molto ballare.Yes, I love to dance.
- ChiaraVuoi andare a un corso con me?Do you want to go to a class with me?
- FrancescoCertamente, andiamo insieme!Certainly, let's go together!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ballo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
