mio Dio
/ˈmi.o ˈdi.o/word by word
The English phrase "my God" is translated into Italian as mio Dio.
mio Dio is used as an interjection to express a wide range of intense emotions, including shock, dismay, fear or extreme joy. Other common Italian expressions that can serve a similar purpose in translation include Mamma mia! or the informal Madonna! to express surprise, shock or frustration.
Which one should you use?
The phrase mio Dio is used as an exclamation. In contrast, if you are referring to a deity that one possesses or follows, you would use il mio dio by including the definite article.
How does it change in a sentence?
When you use the phrase as an exclamation, the possessive adjective mio does not take a definite article.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmi.o ˈdi.o/. The word has 4 syllables and the stress is on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- In Italy, using mio Dio or Madonna can be considered a 'bestemmia' or blasphemy if the phrase is paired with a derogatory adjective.
- Italians may accompany the exclamation mio Dio with a gesture of placing a hand on the chest or forehead to emphasize their distress.
- The word Dio is a distant linguistic relative of the English word 'deity', as both trace back to the same ancient root for 'sky' or 'heaven'.
Examples in context
- Tom! Oh mio Dio!Tom! Oh my God!This sentence shows how to use mio Dio as an exclamation.Tatoeba #3540984 by Guybrush88, translation #2807639 by Hybrid
- Il mio dio esiste.My god exists.This sentence demonstrates the use of mio Dio when referring to a deity.Tatoeba #13505969 by Guybrush88, translation #8393110 by Amastan
- Mio Dio, com'è triste!My God, how sad!This sentence shows mio Dio being used to express an intense emotion.Tatoeba #11840634 by Guybrush88, translation #1436339 by marcelostockle
- 18 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Giulia and Lorenzo are looking at a very long queue at a cafe.
- GiuliaMio Dio, quanta gente!My god, so many people!
- LorenzoSì, è incredibile.Yes, it is incredible.
- GiuliaNon credo riusciremo a ordinare presto.I don't think we will be able to order soon.
- LorenzoHai ragione, Giulia.You are right, Giulia.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (mio, Dio) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Dio, dio, mio, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
