Ways to say it
| Italian | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| modello | /moˈdɛl.lo/ | masculine |
| modellino | /mo.delˈli.no/ | masculine |
modello is used broadly to refer to a model, a pattern, a template or a prototype in various contexts such as design or science. It can also mean something that is worthy of being a model, such as an esemplare.
Which one should you use?
Use modellino specifically when you are talking about a small-scale miniature or a toy model. In contrast, modello refers to a full-scale model or a pattern/template.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
While modello is the masculine form, when referring specifically to a female fashion model, the feminine form modella is used. To describe the act of being a model, you can use the phrases fare il modello or fare la modella.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /moˈdɛl.lo/. It has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable.
Did you know?
- When talking about a 'model' in the sense of a form to fill out, Italians use modulo, which is a close relative of modello.
- The word modello shares its roots with the English word 'module', as both stem from the Latin modulus, meaning a small measure.
- In the world of Italian sewing, a paper pattern is specifically called a cartamodello, combining the words for 'paper' and 'model'.
Examples in context
- Lei è un modello?Are you a model?This sentence is useful for asking if someone is a model.Tatoeba #3047505 by Guybrush88, translation #2649057 by CK
- Io sono un modello.I'm a model.This sentence is useful for stating that you are a model.Tatoeba #5829032 by Guybrush88, translation #5828973 by CK
- Lui sembra un modello.He looks like a model.This sentence is useful for saying someone looks like a model.Tatoeba #6951092 by Guybrush88, translation #6936823 by owlielovesbooks
- Il modello sta posando per il pittore.The model is posing for the painter.
- Un modello di perfezione.A model of perfection.
- La modella sfila sulla passerella.The model walks on the runway.
- I modelli e le modelle indossano abiti di lusso.The models are wearing luxury clothes.
- Mia sorella sogna di diventare una fotomodella.My sister dreams of becoming a model.
- 52 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Francesco and Chiara are looking at a hobby shop display.
- FrancescoChe bello questo modello!This model is so beautiful!
- ChiaraSì, è un modello davvero preciso.Yes, it is a very precise model.
- FrancescoChiara, vuoi comprarlo?Chiara, do you want to buy it?
- ChiaraForse lo prenderò più tardi.Maybe I will get it later.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “model” translations and entries modello, modellino, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries modello, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
