baci e abbracci
The English phrase "hugs and kisses" is translated into Italian as baci e abbracci.
baci e abbracci is an affectionate closing used in letters or messages to show love to friends and family.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a literal translation of "kisses and hugs", where baci means "kisses" and abbracci means "hugs".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
You can use Grandi abbracci e tanti baci to say "Big hugs and lots of kisses" in informal settings. For an even more affectionate and cute tone, often used with children or very close loved ones, you can use bacini e abbracci, which translates to "little kisses and hugs".
How does it change in a sentence?
If you want to use the singular form "a kiss and a hug", you use un bacio e un abbraccio.
Did you know?
- If you are writing to someone very close, you might see un bacio volato used in messages, which literally translates to a 'flown kiss' similar to blowing a kiss.
- While baci e abbracci is used in writing, Italians often greet each other in person with two air-kisses on the cheeks, alternating right then left.
- The word abbraccio shares the same root as the word for 'arm', braccio, reflecting the physical act of encircling someone.
Examples in context
- Ti mando baci e abbracci.I send you hugs and kisses.
Example conversation
Lorenzo is finishing a text message to Sofia.
- LorenzoCiao Sofia, mi manchi molto!Hi Sofia, I miss you a lot!
- SofiaAnch'io, Lorenzo! Quando ci vediamo?Me too, Lorenzo! When are we seeing each other?
- LorenzoPresto! Ora vado, baci e abbracci.Soon! I'm going now, hugs and kisses.
- SofiaA presto, un bacione!See you soon, a big kiss!
