fatti i fatti tuoi
The English phrase "mind your own business" is translated into Italian as fatti i fatti tuoi.
This is a blunt command used to tell someone to stop interfering in matters that do not concern them.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The phrase fatti i fatti tuoi is informal. It is considered a blunt expression and can be perceived as rude or aggressive depending on the tone of voice you use.
How does it change in a sentence?
The default form fatti i fatti tuoi uses the singular informal imperative, which is used when speaking to one person you know well or when you are being intentionally blunt with them.
Did you know?
- The word tuoi in this context is believed by some linguists to be an ellipsis of i tuoi genitori, meaning 'your parents'.
- If you want to be even more aggressive, you can replace fatti with the reflexive verb pigliati, effectively telling someone to 'grab' their own business.
- In formal situations, you cannot simply change the phrase to the formal 'Lei' version without it sounding like a direct, stinging insult.
Examples in context
- Guarda, fatti i fatti tuoi e non parlare.Look, mind your own business and don't talk.
- Non ti riguarda, fatti i fatti tuoi.It's none of your concern, mind your own business.
Example conversation
Lorenzo and Martina are arguing in a coffee shop.
- LorenzoPerché ti interessi della mia vita privata?Why are you interested in my private life?
- MartinaVolevo solo aiutarti con quel problema.I only wanted to help you with that problem.
- LorenzoNo, grazie. Fatti i fatti tuoi!No, thanks. Mind your own business!
- MartinaVa bene, scusa se sono stata troppo curiosa.Alright, sorry if I was too curious.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries fatti, tuoi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
