Che bello
/ˈke ˈbɛl.lo/word by word
The English phrase "how nice" can be translated into Italian as Che bello.
Che bello! is used as an exclamation to express delight or enthusiasm regarding a piece of news or a situation. It is also the standard way to say "how nice" when referring to an event, a sight or a situation.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of che (how/what) and bello (beautiful/nice), literally translating to "How beautiful".
Which one should you use?
While it is the standard way to say "how nice" regarding an event, sight or situation, Che bello is more focused on aesthetic or emotional beauty than the English "nice", which can sometimes imply politeness.
How does it change in a sentence?
If the thing being described is a feminine noun, such as una notizia (a piece of news), the adjective must change to the feminine form Che bella.
Did you know?
- In an ironic tone, Che bello is frequently used to express the exact opposite of delight, such as when reacting to bad news or a tedious task.
- If you want to say 'how nice' about an incredibly delicious meal, Italians often use Che buono instead of Che bello.
- The word bello comes from the Latin bellus, which was originally a diminutive form meaning 'pretty' or 'cute' before becoming the standard word for beauty.
Examples in context
- Che bello essere ancora alle Hawaii!How nice to be in Hawaii again!This sentence shows how to use Che bello to express being in Hawaii again.Tatoeba #1999310 by Guybrush88, translation #32653 by CN
- Che bello!How nice!This sentence shows using Che bello as a standalone exclamation.Tatoeba #348001 by grantortino, translation #1913091 by CK
- Mi piace molto il tuo nuovo vestito, è carinissimo!I really like your new dress, it's so cute!
- Che bello questo colore!How nice this color is!
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Francesco shows Giulia a photo of his new puppy.
- FrancescoGuarda il mio nuovo cucciolo!Look at my new puppy!
- GiuliaChe bello! È davvero carino.How nice! He is really cute.
- FrancescoSì, è molto dolce.Yes, he is very sweet.
- GiuliaSono contenta per te, Francesco.I am happy for you, Francesco.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (che, bello) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bello, che, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
