When learning a new language, it’s essential to expand your vocabulary to express different ideas and concepts. One such word that often comes up in conversations is “despite.” In this guide, we will explore the various ways to say “despite” in Italian, both formally and informally. We will also provide regional variations if they exist. So, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced Italian language learner, let’s delve into the world of expressing “despite” in Italian!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Despite”
If you want to convey “despite” in a formal context, you can use the following expressions:
1. Nonostante
The most commonly used term for “despite” in Italian is “nonostante.” This expression is versatile and suitable for both written and spoken Italian.
Example: Nonostante il maltempo, siamo andati al mare. (Despite the bad weather, we went to the beach.)
2. Malgrado
An alternative formal term for “despite” is “malgrado.” While less frequently used in everyday conversations, it is still important to be aware of this expression.
Example: Malgrado i suoi problemi di salute, ha continuato a lavorare. (Despite his health issues, he continued to work.)
Informal Ways to Say “Despite”
When it comes to informal situations, Italians tend to use certain phrases that might not be considered as formal as “nonostante” or “malgrado.” Here are some common ways to express “despite” in a less formal manner:
1. Nonostante tutto
One casual way to say “despite” in Italian is by using the phrase “nonostante tutto.” It adds a personal touch and is commonly used among friends and family members.
Example: Nonostante tutto quello che hai fatto, ti perdono. (Despite everything you have done, I forgive you.)
2. A dispetto di
In informal contexts, you can also utilize the expression “a dispetto di,” which conveys a sense of defiance or opposition.
Example: A dispetto di tutti i problemi, abbiamo raggiunto il nostro obiettivo. (Despite all the problems, we achieved our goal.)
Regional Variations
Italian is a rich and diverse language that can vary slightly depending on the region. While there is no significant regional variation for expressing “despite,” some local dialects may have unique phrases. One example is the Venetian dialect, which may use “malgrado” as “malgra.” However, it’s crucial to note that these dialectal variations are not commonly used in standard Italian.
Tips for Using “Despite” in Italian
1. Pay attention to word order
In Italian, the position of “despite” in the sentence can change depending on the emphasis you want to give. If you want to emphasize the subject, it is generally placed before the verb.
Example: Nonostante il traffico, Marco è arrivato in tempo. (Despite the traffic, Marco arrived on time.)
2. Be mindful of gender and number agreement
Italian nouns and adjectives have gender and number agreement. Ensure that the noun and adjective following “nonostante” or any other expression match in gender and number.
Example: Nonostante le difficoltà finanziarie, hanno deciso di andare in vacanza. (Despite the financial difficulties, they decided to go on vacation.)
3. Familiarize yourself with idiomatic expressions
Italian, like any language, has idiomatic expressions that convey the meaning of “despite” in a more nuanced way. Here are a few examples:
- Nonostante il mare mosso (Despite the rough sea)
- Nonostante la fatica (Despite the fatigue)
- Nonostante tutti gli ostacoli (Despite all the obstacles)
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve expanded your vocabulary and learned how to say “despite” in Italian. In this guide, we covered both formal and informal expressions, ensuring you’re well-equipped for various situations. Remember to consider word order, gender and number agreement, and explore idiomatic expressions for a deeper understanding of how to use “despite” in Italian. So, nonostante le sfide (despite the challenges), keep practicing and embrace the beauty of the Italian language!
