ometto
The English phrase "little man" is translated into Italian as ometto.
ometto is a term used to describe a man who is small in stature or perceived as insignificant.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed by the root uomo (man) with the diminutive suffix -etto (little).
Which one should you use?
While ometto can imply insignificance, the related form omino is a more common diminutive used to express endearment or to describe a very small person without necessarily being derogatory.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of ometto is ometti.
Did you know?
- While ometto suggests insignificance, the similar omino is often used by adults to describe a young boy acting like a grown-up, such as wearing a tiny suit or tie.
- In certain regional Italian dialects, the diminutive suffixes can change the meaning from 'small' to 'ugly' or 'worthless', making the choice of suffix a social minefield.
- The word omino can be used as a term of endearment for a small child, even if that child is not a man, functioning more like 'little guy' in English.
Examples in context
- Ehi, piccino!Hey, little man!
- Quell'ometto è molto veloce a correre.That little man is very fast at running.
- Non ascoltare quell'ometto, non conta nulla.Don't listen to that insignificant little man, he counts for nothing.
- È un ometto molto gentile con tutti.He is a very kind little man to everyone.
Example conversation
Chiara and Lorenzo are watching a man argue from a distance.
- ChiaraGuarda quell'ometto che urla.Look at that little man shouting.
- LorenzoSembra davvero molto arrabbiato.He seems really angry.
- ChiaraÈ solo un ometto ridicolo.He is just a ridiculous little man.
- LorenzoHai ragione, non preoccupartene.You're right, don't worry about him.
