vivi, ridi, ama
The English phrase "live, laugh, love" is translated into Italian as vivi, ridi, ama.
This phrase is a popular inspirational motto used to encourage a positive and joyful approach to life. You can add emphasis to the motto by adding adverbs, such as Vivere profondamente, ridere intensamente, amare sinceramente (Live deeply, laugh intensely, love sincerely).
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of three imperative verbs: vivi (live), ridi (laugh) and ama (love).
How does it change in a sentence?
The verbs in vivi, ridi, ama are in the second-person singular imperative form, which is used when addressing one person informally. If you want to address a group of people with the same motto, you would use the plural imperative forms vivete, ridete, amate.
Did you know?
- The rhythmic structure of the three verbs is a 'tricolon', a rhetorical device favored since Ancient Rome to create a sense of completeness and balance.
- In Italian, amare is the highest form of love, but the word volere (to want) is used in ti voglio bene to express a different, though equally strong, type of affection for friends and family.
- The concept of 'living' in Italian can be expressed through vivere (biological life) or abitare (residing in a place). Using vivi in this motto specifically commands a way of experiencing existence rather than a place of residence.
Examples in context
- Vivi ogni giorno come se fosse l'ultimo, ridi come se non ci fosse un domani, ama sempre senza riserve.Live each day as if it were your last, laugh as if there were no tomorrow, always love without reservations.
- Il mio motto è: vivi, ridi, ama.My motto is: live, laugh, love.
- Vivi, ridi, ama: questa è la filosofia perfetta.Live, laugh, love: this is the perfect philosophy.
Example conversation
Martina shows Alessandro a decorative sign in her home.
- MartinaGuarda questo quadro, dice: vivi, ridi, ama.Look at this painting, it says: live, laugh, love.
- AlessandroÈ un messaggio molto positivo, Martina.It is a very positive message, Martina.
- MartinaSì, mi ricorda di essere sempre allegra.Yes, it reminds me to always be cheerful.
- AlessandroHai ragione, è un bel pensiero.You are right, it is a beautiful thought.
