frequentarsi
The English phrase 'dating' can be translated into Italian using the form frequentarsi.
Meaning: a form of romantic courtship (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The verb frequentarsi is a reflexive verb that literally translates to 'to frequent each other,' emphasizing the mutual nature of the action.
Which one should you use?
While frequentarsi implies a regular, ongoing romantic courtship, it is considered less intense than the phrase stare insieme, which means 'to be together' and implies being in a relationship. To express the concept of 'seeing someone' in a more casual way, you can use vedere qualcuno.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because frequentarsi is a reflexive verb, you must use reflexive pronouns. For example, to say 'they are dating' in the present tense, you use the third-person plural reflexive form si frequentano.
Did you know?
- Unlike English, where 'date' is a common noun, Italian does not have a single noun that perfectly mirrors the English 'a date'. People instead use appuntamento, which can also mean a business appointment or a doctor's visit.
- If a person is 'dating' someone in a very casual or flirtatious way, they might use the term corteggiare, which means 'to court'. This is an older term but is still used to describe the pursuit of a romantic interest.
- In Italy, using the verb frequentare without the reflexive pronoun si changes the meaning entirely from 'dating someone' to 'attending' or 'visiting' a place, such as a school or a cafe.
Examples in context
- Sto frequentando una ragazza molto speciale.I'm dating a very special girl.
- Vorrei chiederti se vuoi uscire con me.I would like to ask you if you want to go out with me.
- Sono andato/a a un appuntamento ieri sera.I went on a date last night.
- Da quanto tempo frequenti questa persona?How long have you been dating this person?
- Mi piace passare del tempo con teI enjoy spending time with you
Example conversation
Two friends talking about a new relationship.
- LorenzoHai visto che Lorenzo e Giulia hanno iniziato a frequentarsi?Did you see that Lorenzo and Giulia started dating?
- GiuliaSì, sembrano davvero felici insieme.Yes, they seem really happy together.
- LorenzoPensavo che fossero solo amici.I thought they were just friends.
- GiuliaA volte succede quando si frequentarsi per un po'.Sometimes it happens when you date for a while.
