nepotismo
/ne.poˈtiz.mo/masculine
The English phrase "nepotism" is translated into Italian as nepotismo.
The word nepotismo is a noun used to describe the favoring of relatives or personal friends.
Meaning: favoring of relatives or personal friends (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
As a masculine noun, it is preceded by the definite article 'il' in the singular. The person who practices nepotism is called a nepotista.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 4 syllables and the stress is on the 3rd syllable: /ne.poˈtiz.mo/.
Did you know?
- The practice of nepotismo was so common in the Renaissance papacy that it created a formal political role known as the 'cardinal-nephew'.
- While 'nepotismo' refers to the practice, the root word nepote traditionally meant 'grandchild' or 'descendant', which is much more literal than the English connection to 'nephew'.
- While nepotismo is the official term, Italians often use the word raccomandazione to describe the act of using a social connection to secure a job or favor.
Examples in context
- Fu accusata di nepotismo.She was accused for nepotism.This sentence shows how to use nepotismo when describing an accusation.Tatoeba #5526557 by Guybrush88, translation #4773978 by robbieheslop
- Il nepotismo è diffuso negli stadi orientali.Nepotism is widespread in Eastern countries.This sentence illustrates how to describe the prevalence of nepotismo in certain regions.Tatoeba #5962390 by Valdast, translation #5961951 by mailohilohi
- Il nepotismo rovina la meritocrazia in azienda.Nepotism ruins meritocracy in the company.
- 3 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Giulia and Matteo are discussing a recent promotion at work.
- GiuliaNon capisco perché lui sia stato promosso.I don't understand why he was promoted.
- MatteoPurtroppo sembra un caso di nepotismo.Unfortunately, it seems like a case of nepotism.
- GiuliaÈ davvero ingiusto per tutti noi.It is really unfair for all of us.
- MatteoHai ragione, Giulia, è un problema serio.You are right, Giulia, it is a serious problem.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “nepotism” translations and entries nepotismo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nepotismo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
