scatola regalo
/ˈska.to.la reˈɡa.lo/word by word
The English phrase 'gift box' is translated into Italian as scatola regalo.
Use scatola regalo to refer specifically to a decorative container used for holding a present. If you are referring more broadly to any type of gift packaging or a gift set rather than just a box, the alternative confezione regalo is commonly used.
How does it change in a sentence?
To form the plural 'gift boxes', only the noun changes to scatole regalo, while regalo stays in its singular form because it acts as a modifier. If you wish to say 'a box of gifts', implying that the box contains multiple gifts, use the phrase scatola dei regali.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 5 syllables with the stress on the first syllable: /ˈska.to.la reˈɡa.lo/.
Did you know?
- The word scatola actually descends from an ancient Germanic term for a 'basket' rather than a Latin one. It is a linguistic descendant of the word kasto, which is also the ancestor of the German word 'Kasten'.
- In Italy, if you ask a shopkeeper for a confezione regalo, they will typically wrap your item for free or for a small fee as a standard service.
- While scatola regalo refers to the box itself, the word regalo is also used as a verb, regalare, meaning to give something for free.
Examples in context
- Vorrei una scatola regalo per il mio amico.I would like a gift box for my friend.
- Ho comprato un pacchetto regalo fantastico per il compleanno di mio fratello.I bought a fantastic gift box for my brother's birthday.
- Questa scatola regalo è bellissima.This gift box is beautiful.
- Dove hai comprato la scatola regalo?Where did you buy the gift box?
Example conversation
Lorenzo and Sofia are preparing for a surprise party.
- LorenzoHai una scatola regalo per il regalo di Marco?Do you have a gift box for Marco's gift?
- SofiaSì, l'ho messa sul tavolo.Yes, I put it on the table.
- LorenzoÈ abbastanza grande per il suo nuovo libro?Is it big enough for his new book?
- SofiaSì, la scatola regalo è perfetta.Yes, the gift box is perfect.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (scatola, regalo) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries regalo, scatola, CC BY-SA 4.0.
