lassativo
/las.saˈti.vo/masculine
The English word "laxative" is translated into Italian as lassativo.
The term refers to a substance that has a laxative effect.
Meaning: substance with a laxative effect (noun)
Which one should you use?
While lassativo is the standard term, purgante can be used in more formal contexts.
How does it change in a sentence?
The masculine noun lassativo becomes lassativi in its plural form.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 4 syllables, with the stress on the 3rd syllable: /las.saˈti.vo/.
Did you know?
- While both are used, purgante is perceived as having a much more powerful and aggressive effect on the body than lassativo.
- In Italian, the word lassativo can be used as an adjective to describe something that relaxes or loosens, not just as a noun for a medicine.
- The word lassativo shares the same Latin root as the English word 'lax', which means 'loose' or 'relaxed'.
Examples in context
- Ho bisogno di un lassativo per alleviare il mio problema di stitichezza.I need a laxative to relieve my constipation problem.
- Mi consigli un purgante naturale?Can you recommend a natural laxative?
- Il medico mi ha consigliato un lassativo.The doctor recommended a laxative to me.
- Questo lassativo è molto efficace.This laxative is very effective.
- Devo comprare un lassativo in farmacia.I need to buy a laxative at the pharmacy.
Example conversation
Chiara and Lorenzo are at a drugstore.
- ChiaraLorenzo, sai dove si trova il lassativo?Lorenzo, do you know where the laxative is?
- LorenzoSì, Chiara, è in quel ripiano a destra.Yes, Chiara, it is on that shelf to the right.
- ChiaraGrazie, ne ho bisogno per oggi.Thanks, I need one for today.
- LorenzoPrego, prendi pure quello che preferisci.You're welcome, just take the one you prefer.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “laxative” translations and entries lassativo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lassativo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
