i nonni
The English phrase 'grandpa and grandma' is translated into Italian as i nonni.
i nonni is a collective term used to refer to both paternal and maternal grandparents.
What does it mean word for word?
The term is derived from nonno, which is the singular masculine form meaning 'grandfather'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase i nonni uses the masculine plural form to refer to a mixed-gender group of grandparents.
Did you know?
- While i nonni is the standard term, you might hear the much more affectionate i nonnini in certain regional dialects or very close-knit families.
- In Italy, it is common to distinguish between maternal and paternal grandparents by adding materni or paterni after i nonni.
- The term nonno is often used as a term of endearment for any elderly man, even if there is no biological relation.
Examples in context
- I nonni vengono a trovarci domani.Grandpa and grandma are coming to visit us tomorrow.
- I nonni hanno preparato una torta deliziosa.Grandpa and grandma made a delicious cake.
- Dobbiamo chiamare i nonni per il loro compleanno.We must call grandpa and grandma for their birthday.
Example conversation
Alessandro and Chiara are discussing their weekend plans.
- AlessandroVuoi andare a trovare i nonni questo fine settimana?Do you want to go visit grandpa and grandma this weekend?
- ChiaraSì, mi mancano molto i nonni.Yes, I miss grandpa and grandma a lot.
- AlessandroAllora passeremo l'intera domenica con loro.Then we will spend the whole Sunday with them.
- ChiaraOttima idea, porterò un regalo per i nonni.Great idea, I will bring a gift for grandpa and grandma.
