Are you planning to move to Italy or engage with Italian expatriates? Knowing how to say “expat” in Italian will help you communicate effectively and connect with the locals. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to express the term “expat” in Italian, providing tips, examples, and even covering regional variations if necessary. Let’s get started and dive into the world of Italian vocabulary!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Expat” in Italian
When it comes to formal situations, such as official documents, business interactions, or professional settings, you should opt for more formal expressions to refer to expatriates. Here are several formal ways to express the term “expat” in Italian:
Italian Equivalent: Espatriato
“Espatriato” is the standard formal term in Italian to refer to an expatriate. It is commonly used in official contexts, such as legal documents, bureaucratic procedures, or formal written communication. For instance, you might encounter this term in government forms or job applications. Here’s an example:
Il nostro ufficio è alla ricerca di espatriati con esperienza internazionale.
(Our office is looking for expatriates with international experience.)
Alternative: Residente all’estero
Another formal expression commonly used is “residente all’estero,” which directly translates to “resident abroad.” While it doesn’t use the specific term “expat,” it effectively conveys the same meaning in a more formal manner. Here’s an example:
La legge fiscale italiana si applica anche ai cittadini residenti all’estero.
(Italian tax law also applies to citizens residing abroad.)
2. Informal Ways to Say “Expat” in Italian
In casual conversations or informal situations, you can use more relaxed expressions to refer to expatriates. Here are a couple of commonly used informal alternatives:
Italian Equivalent: Espat
“Espat” is an informal term often used in colloquial Italian to refer to a person living abroad. This word derives from the abbreviation of “espatriato” and is widely understood among Italians in everyday conversations. Here’s an example:
Mio fratello è un espat a Londra.
(My brother is an expat in London.)
Alternative: Italian Abbreviation “Exp”
Similar to the informal use of “espat,” Italians might also use the abbreviation “exp” in casual contexts. By truncating the term “espatriato,” they create a shortened and informal version to refer to expatriates. Here’s an example:
Conosco un sacco di exp che vivono in Spagna.
(I know a lot of expats who live in Spain.)
3. Regional Variations (If Necessary)
While the previously mentioned expressions are commonly used throughout Italy, it’s worth noting that regional variations can exist. Different regions or cities might have their own unique local terms or dialects. However, the purpose of this guide is to provide you with the most widely understood and used expressions across the country. Therefore, it’s recommended to stick with the formal and informal ways mentioned above to ensure clear communication throughout Italy.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now acquired the knowledge to express the term “expat” in Italian. Remember, when dealing with formal situations, opt for “espatriato” or “residente all’estero.” On the other hand, in casual conversations, feel free to use the informal terms “espat” or the abbreviation “exp.” By mastering these expressions, you’ll be able to engage with Italians more effectively, connect with the local expat community, and navigate Italy with confidence. Buon viaggio! (Have a great journey!)
