al volo
/al ˈvo.lo/word by word
The Italian phrase for "on the go" is al volo.
al volo is used to describe tasks or actions performed quickly or while in transit, much like the English expressions "on the go" or "on the fly".
Meaning: actively traveling (prep_phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, al volo translates to "on the fly" in English.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation of al volo is /al ˈvo.lo/. It has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable.
Did you know?
- In Italian, al volo is commonly used when ordering a coffee or a snack if you intend to eat it standing at the bar rather than sitting at a table.
- An Italian might say prendere al volo when they 'catch' an opportunity or a suggestion immediately, mimicking the action of a bird catching an insect in mid-air.
- The word volo comes from the verb volare, which is the ancestor of English words like 'volatile' and 'volley'.
Examples in context
- Durante il congresso, sono rimasto in movimento per tutto il giorno.During the conference, I was on the go all day.
- Sono sempre in viaggio per lavoro.I'm always on the go for work.
- Non ho tempo per pranzare, sono sempre in corsa.I don't have time to have lunch, I'm always on the go.
- Voglio uscire e stare un po' in giro con i miei amici.I want to go out and hang out with my friends for a while.
- Ho mangiato un panino al volo.I ate a sandwich on the go.
Example conversation
Martina and Francesco are meeting briefly at a train station.
- MartinaCiao Francesco, scusa il ritardo!Hi Francesco, sorry I'm late!
- FrancescoNessun problema, sei di corsa?No problem, are you in a rush?
- MartinaSì, devo prendere un caffè al volo.Yes, I need to grab a coffee on the go.
- FrancescoVa bene, ci sentiamo più tardi.All right, we'll talk later.
