entrare in travaglio
/enˈtra.re in traˈvaʎ.ʎo/word by word
The English phrase "go into labor" is translated into Italian as entrare in travaglio.
To begin the process of giving birth to a child.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb entrare (to enter), the preposition in (in) and the noun travaglio (labor/travail/struggle).
How does it change in a sentence?
When describing a woman who has just gone into labor, use the auxiliary verb essere with the feminine singular past participle entrata, as seen in the phrase è entrata in travaglio (she has gone into labor).
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /enˈtra.re in traˈvaʎ.ʎo/. The phrase has 5 syllables and the stress is on the 2nd syllable.
Did you know?
- The word travaglio is derived from a term for a tool used in torture or a restrictive device. This reflects the historical view of childbirth as a form of intense physical suffering.
- The word travaglio is also used metaphorically in Italian literature to describe any intense mental or spiritual struggle, much like 'torment' or 'ordeal'.
- In Italian, the concept of 'labor' in childbirth is expressed through travaglio, but the word for 'work' in a professional sense is lavoro.
Examples in context
- Mi dispiace, ma non posso partecipare alla riunione domani perché sono in travaglio.I'm sorry, but I can't attend the meeting tomorrow because I'm in labor.
- Ho dei forti dolori addominali. Credo di essere in travaglio.I have strong abdominal pains. I think I'm going into labor.
- La donna è entrata in travaglio poco dopo mezzanotte.The woman went into labor shortly after midnight.
Example conversation
A couple is at home when the wife feels the first contractions.
- MartinaAlessandro, credo di entrare in travaglio!Alessandro, I think I'm going into labor!
- AlessandroDavvero? Prendo subito la borsa per l'ospedale.Really? I'll get the hospital bag right away.
- MartinaSì, le contrazioni sono molto forti.Yes, the contractions are very strong.
- AlessandroCalmati, Martina, andiamo subito in macchina.Calm down, Martina, let's get in the car immediately.
