buona sorte
The English phrase "good fortune" translates to Italian as buona sorte.
buona sorte is used to describe a sense of destiny or fate.
Meaning: Translations (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the adjective buona (good) and the noun sorte (fate or luck).
Which one should you use?
While buona sorte refers to a sense of destiny or fate, the phrase buona fortuna is more commonly used to refer to luck or the act of wishing someone luck.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because the noun sorte is feminine, the adjective must use the feminine form buona rather than the masculine buono.
Did you know?
- In Italy, people often use the cornicello amulet, a small red horn, to physically attract buona sorte and protect themselves from the malocchio or 'evil eye'.
- The word sorte is closely related to the English word 'sort' because both originally described the act of drawing lots to determine one's destiny.
- If you want to talk about sudden, material wealth rather than just general luck, Italian speakers will gravitate towards fortuna rather than sorte.
Examples in context
- Ho sempre avuto la buona sorte al mio fianco.I've always had good fortune by my side.This sentence is useful for describing how good fortune has accompanied you throughout your life using the form buona sorte.Tatoeba #13055034 by Nuel, translation #13055033 by Nuel
- La buona sorte ha sempre fatto parte del mio viaggio.Good fortune has always been part of my journey.This sentence is useful for stating that good fortune has been a part of your journey using the form buona sorte.Tatoeba #13055039 by Nuel, translation #13055038 by Nuel
Example conversation
Chiara and Alessandro are talking about a job application.
- ChiaraHo inviato il mio curriculum ieri.I sent my resume yesterday.
- AlessandroSpero che tu abbia buona sorte, Chiara.I hope you have good fortune, Chiara.
- ChiaraGrazie, Alessandro, spero sia così.Thank you, Alessandro, I hope so.
- AlessandroFammi sapere se ti chiamano.Let me know if they call you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sorte, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
