leggerezza
/led.d͡ʒeˈret.t͡sa/feminine
The English phrase 'lightness' can be translated into Italian as leggerezza.
leggerezza refers to the state of having little weight. While it can describe physical lightness, it is frequently used metaphorically to describe a lack of seriousness, frivolity or depth in behavior or character.
Meaning: the state of having little weight (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The noun is derived from the adjective leggero (light) using the suffix -ezza, which is used to form abstract nouns from adjectives.
How does it change in a sentence?
As a feminine noun, leggerezza is preceded by feminine articles such as la (the) or una (a).
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /led.dʒeˈret.tsa/. It has 4 syllables, with the stress on the 3rd syllable.
Did you know?
- The word is related to the English word 'legerdemain', which refers to sleight of hand or trickery.
- The concept of leggerezza is central to the philosophy of Italo Calvino, who argued that lightness is a tool to avoid the crushing weight of existence.
- In Italian culinary terms, a dish described as leggero does not refer to its physical weight, but to it being low in calories or easy to digest.
Examples in context
- C'è leggerezza nel mio cuore dopo aver parlato con lui.There's a lightness in my heart after talking with him.This sentence is useful for seeing how to express the metaphorical feeling of lightness in one's heart using leggerezza.Tatoeba #13102934 by Nuel, translation #13102933 by Nuel
- La sua danza era caratterizzata da una grande leggerezzaHer dance was characterized by great lightness
- Siamo usciti per una passeggiata, godendoci la spensieratezza della giornataWe went out for a walk, enjoying the lightness of the day
- La leggerezza delle penneThe lightness of the feathers
- La leggerità dei pensieriThe lightness of thoughts
- La leggerezza della sua valigia le permetteva di viaggiare facilmenteThe lightness of her suitcase allowed her to travel easily
- Il suo sorriso trasmetteva una spensieratezza contagiosaHis smile conveyed a contagious lightness of spirit
- La leggerezza di questo tessuto è incredibile.The lightness of this fabric is incredible.
- Apprezzo la leggerezza del tuo nuovo zaino.I appreciate the lightness of your new backpack.
Example conversation
Alessandro and Giulia are shopping for camping gear.
- AlessandroGuarda questa tenda, è perfetta.Look at this tent, it is perfect.
- GiuliaSì, la sua leggerezza è incredibile, Alessandro.Yes, its lightness is incredible, Alessandro.
- AlessandroSarà molto facile da trasportare.It will be very easy to carry.
- GiuliaCompriamola subito, Giulia concorda con te.Let's buy it right away, Giulia agrees with you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “lightness” translations and entries leggerezza, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries leggerezza, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
