imparare l'italiano
The phrase 'learning Italian' in Italian is expressed as imparare l'italiano.
The phrase refers to the act of acquiring the ability to speak and understand the Italian language.
Which one should you use?
While imparare l'italiano focuses on the result of acquiring the language, the alternative phrase studiare l'italiano focuses on the process of studying or the academic study of the language.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase imparare l'italiano uses the infinitive form of the verb, which is the standard way to express the concept of 'learning Italian' as a general activity or a subject.
When do people say it?
If someone tells you they are learning the language, you can respond with Buona fortuna! to say 'Good luck!'
Did you know?
- The verb imparare has an unexpected connection to the French word emparer, which means 'to seize' or 'to take hold of'.
- The Italian language is often affectionately referred to as la bella lingua by its speakers, reflecting a cultural pride in the phonetic beauty of the language.
- While imparare l'italiano is the general term, Italians often use the word ripassare when they are 'learning' something they have forgotten, meaning 'to review'.
Examples in context
- Sto imparando l'italiano.I am learning Italian.
- Imparare l'italiano è molto divertente.Learning Italian is very fun.
- Voglio imparare l'italiano per vivere a Roma.I want to learn Italian to live in Rome.
- Hai tempo per imparare l'italiano ogni giorno?Do you have time to learn Italian every day?
Example conversation
Alessandro and Giulia are talking about their hobbies.
- AlessandroCiao Giulia, cosa fai nel tempo libero?Hi Giulia, what do you do in your free time?
- GiuliaOra sto cercando di imparare l'italiano.Right now I am trying to learn Italian.
- AlessandroDavvero? È una lingua bellissima!Really? It is a beautiful language!
- GiuliaSì, ma richiede molta pratica.Yes, but it requires a lot of practice.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries imparare, CC BY-SA 4.0.
