forza
/ˈfɔr.t͡sa/
The English phrase "let's go" can be translated into Italian as forza or dai.
Meaning: expression of encouragement, cheer (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Italian | IPA |
|---|---|
| forza | /ˈfɔr.t͡sa/ |
| dai |
Both words serve as expressions of encouragement or cheer.
What does it mean word for word?
The word forza literally means strength or force.
Which one should you use?
Forza is used to encourage someone to find strength or to persevere. In contrast, dai is more often used as a general "come on" to urge movement or action. Additionally, dai can be used to express impatience, similar to the English "come on!" when someone is being slow.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈfɔr.tsa/. The word has 2 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- While dai is used for encouragement, saying it with a falling intonation and a sigh often means 'you can't be serious' or 'stop lying'.
- The word dai is actually the imperative form of the verb 'dare', which means 'to give'.
- Forza can be used as a standalone response to someone sharing bad news, acting as a way to say 'keep your chin up'.
Examples in context
- Dai, andiamo al mercato assieme.Come on, let's go to the market together.This sentence shows how to use dai to suggest an action.Tatoeba #13495117 by Guybrush88, translation #2570341 by FeuDRenais2
- Forza, saliamo!Come on, let's go up!This sentence shows how to use forza to urge movement.Tatoeba #2448545 by Guybrush88, translation #1506267 by marco87
- Andiamo dai Jackson.Let's go to the Jacksons'.This sentence demonstrates a different use of dai.Tatoeba #3254086 by Guybrush88, translation #2007506 by CK
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Giulia and Alessandro are at a running track.
- GiuliaForza, Alessandro, puoi farcela!Let's go, Alessandro, you can do it!
- AlessandroGrazie, Giulia, ci provo.Thanks, Giulia, I'll try.
- GiuliaForza, manca pochissimo!Come on, there's very little left!
- AlessandroSì, arrivo alla fine!Yes, I'm reaching the end!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “let's go” translations and entries forza, dai, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
