estrema unzione
The English phrase "last rites" is translated into Italian as estrema unzione.
In Italian, estrema unzione refers to the Catholic sacrament of Anointing of the Sick. When you want to say "to administer the last rites" to a dying person, the common way to express this is by using the verb dare, as in dare l'estrema unzione.
Meaning: Catholic sacrament (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a literal translation of the theological term "extreme unction." The word estrema means extreme or last, and unzione means unction or anointing.
How does it change in a sentence?
While the English term "last rites" is plural, in Italian the phrase is used as a singular noun phrase.
Did you know?
- The Italian word unzione is the root for unguento, a word used for medicinal salves and ointments.
- In many Italian regions, estrema unzione is understood as the 'sacrament of the sick' and can be given to those not in immediate danger of dying.
- While estrema unzione is the official term, Italians often use the phrase sacramenti in the plural to refer to the entire process of preparing a person for death. Saying someone ha ricevuto i sacramenti implies they have received the last rites.
Examples in context
- Grazie Luca. Sì, l'extrema unzione è stata amministrata ieri. Apprezzo le tue parole di sostegno.Thank you, Luca. Yes, the last rites were administered yesterday. I appreciate your words of support.
- Il prete è venuto a dare l'estrema unzione al nonno.The priest came to give the last rites to grandfather.
- Il prete ha amministrato l'estrema unzione al nonno.The priest administered the last rites to my grandfather.
- Chiedono l'estrema unzione per il malato in fin di vita.They are asking for the last rites for the terminally ill patient.
- L'estrema unzione è un sacramento molto importante.The last rites is a very important sacrament.
Example conversation
Matteo and Martina are discussing their sick relative in a hospital.
- MatteoPensi che sia necessario l'estrema unzione?Do you think the last rites are necessary?
- MartinaSì, Matteo, credo che sia il momento.Yes, Matteo, I think it is the time.
- MatteoChiamo subito il sacerdote allora.I will call the priest immediately then.
- MartinaGrazie, Martina apprezzerà molto questo gesto.Thank you, Martina will greatly appreciate this gesture.
