When it comes to expressing the concept of “expensive” in Italian, you’ll find that the language offers a variety of words and phrases that capture different nuances and levels of cost. Whether you’re looking for a formal or informal way to convey the idea, Italian has got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explore the various terms and expressions for “expensive” in Italian and provide you with helpful tips and examples.
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Formal Ways to Say “Expensive” in Italian
If you’re aiming for a more elegant and formal expression when talking about something being expensive, consider using these words:
- Costoso: This is the most common and straightforward term for “expensive” in Italian. It can be used to describe anything from products, services, to experiences. For example, “Quel cappotto è molto costoso” translates to “That coat is very expensive.” Remember to adjust the gender and number of the adjective according to the noun it modifies.
- Oneroso: This term emphasizes the idea of high cost and is often used in a more formal context. It is more commonly employed when referring to expenses, fees, or financial burdens. For instance, “La manutenzione di quella macchina è molto onerosa” means “The maintenance of that car is very expensive.”
- Prezioso: Although “prezioso” primarily means “precious,” it can also evoke a sense of value or high cost. It is often used to describe luxurious or high-end items. For example, “Questa borsa è davvero preziosa” translates to “This bag is truly expensive.”
Informal Ways to Say “Expensive” in Italian
When you’re in a casual conversation or want to take a more relaxed approach, these informal terms will come in handy:
- Caro: “Caro” can be used both as an adjective and a noun to convey the idea of something being expensive. It is versatile and widely understood in everyday conversations. For instance, you can say “Il ristorante italiano è un po’ caro” to mean “The Italian restaurant is a bit expensive.”
- Salgo: This colloquial term is popular among younger generations and is often used to describe something pricey. It is frequently used in slang expressions such as “Questo vestito costa uno sproposito, è salgo!” which means “This dress costs a ton, it’s so expensive!”
- Grosso: While “grosso” generally means “big” or “large,” it can also be used informally to imply high cost. It is particularly common in certain regional variations. For example, in Central and Northern Italy, you may hear someone say “Questo telefono è proprio grosso” to mean “This phone is really expensive.”
Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to help you effectively use these expressions:
- Variations in Italian: Keep in mind that regional variations may exist in Italy, and vocabulary choices can differ. However, the terms and expressions mentioned above are widely understood throughout the country.
- Context matters: Consider the context and the level of formality when choosing which word to use. Formal situations, such as business meetings or official transactions, may require the use of more polite terms like “costoso” or “oneroso.”
- Gender and number agreement: Remember to adjust the adjectives you use to match the gender and number of the noun they describe. In Italian, adjectives must agree in gender and number with the nouns they modify.
- Hand gestures: Italians are known for their expressive hand gestures, and when discussing prices or expenses, they often accompany their words with gestures. Be observant and feel free to join in to enhance your communication.
“Quel ristorante ha dei prezzi molto cari, ma ne vale la pena.” – “That restaurant has very expensive prices, but it’s worth it.”
Remember, using the appropriate term to convey “expensive” in Italian will not only help you communicate effectively but also show your understanding and appreciation of the language and culture. Whether you opt for a formal or informal approach, these expressions will make you feel confident in discussing prices and expenses with native Italian speakers.
