buffonate
The English phrase 'monkey business' can be translated into Italian as buffonate.
buffonate describes behavior that is more than just silly. It refers to actions that are deceptive, dishonest, suspicious or morally questionable. Depending on the context, you can also use other terms to capture different nuances of 'monkey business'. For playful or mischievous behavior, you might use marachelle or the expression fare i birichini (to behave mischievously). If the behavior involves mischief or manipulation in an informal way, you can use affari loschi.
Meaning: activity that is morally questionable or even mildly illegal (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term buffonate literally refers to buffoonery, antics or nonsense.
Which one should you use?
While buffonate implies deceptive or dishonest behavior, marachelle is more appropriate for referring to playful or lighthearted mischief.
Did you know?
- While the English term uses an animal, the Italian buffonate derives from the figure of the 'buffone', a professional jester or clown. It suggests that the questionable behavior is not just dishonest, but also a ridiculous performance designed to fool others.
- In a professional or serious setting, calling someone's actions buffonate can be quite insulting. It implies that their business or arguments are nothing more than a joke or a theatrical farce.
- To fare i birichini describes mischievous behavior, but the word birichino was historically used to describe someone who was rebellious or a 'rascal' in a way that was almost admired.
Examples in context
- Non tollererò mai gli affari poco puliti nella mia compagnia.I will never tolerate monkey business in my company.
- Stanno combinando chissà quali macchinazioni dietro le quinte!They are up to who knows what kind of monkey business behind the scenes!
- I ragazzi sono impegnati a fare marachelle nel cortile di casa.The kids are busy with monkey business in the backyard.
- Non voglio più queste buffonate in ufficio.I don't want any more of this monkey business in the office.
- Basta con queste buffonate, è ora di lavorare.Enough with this monkey business, it's time to work.
Example conversation
Lorenzo and Martina are discussing a suspicious business deal.
- LorenzoMartina, guarda questi documenti sospetti.Martina, look at these suspicious documents.
- MartinaSospetto che ci siano delle buffonate.I suspect there is some monkey business going on.
- LorenzoHai ragione, i conti non tornano.You're right, the numbers don't add up.
- MartinaDobbiamo riferirlo subito al capo.We must report it to the boss immediately.
