schietto
/ˈskjɛt.to/
The English word outspoken is translated into Italian as schietto.
The adjective schietto is used to describe someone who speaks freely, openly or boldly.
Meaning: speaking, or spoken, freely, openly, or boldly, vocal (adj)
Which one should you use?
While schietto implies being direct and honest, it is more positive than sfacciato, which means 'outspoken' in a cheeky or insolent way.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective schietto must agree in gender with the person being described, changing to schietta for a female.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 2 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable. It is pronounced /ˈskjɛt.to/.
Did you know?
- The Italian word schietto is an unexpected distant relative of the English word 'slight', both originating from a root meaning 'smooth'.
- While schietto describes a bold person, the word sfacciato describes someone outspoken in a way that literally means 'without a face', implying a lack of shame.
- In Italian, schietto can describe more than just a personality. It is used to describe a 'pure' or 'undiluted' wine, referring to a taste that is clear and honest.
Examples in context
- Tom è molto schietto.Tom is very outspoken.This sentence is useful for describing someone's personality using schietto.Tatoeba #1267762 by Guybrush88, translation #3412998 by CK
- È schietto, vero?He's outspoken, isn't he?This sentence is useful for seeking confirmation about someone being schietto.Tatoeba #8702375 by Guybrush88, translation #8526702 by CH
- Maria è una donna schietta e sincera, non ha paura di dire quello che pensa.Maria is a straightforward and sincere woman, she is not afraid to speak her mind.
- Marco è un ragazzo sfacciato che dice sempre quello che pensa, senza preoccuparsi delle conseguenze.Marco is a bold boy who always says what he thinks, without worrying about the consequences.
- Mi piace il suo modo schietto di parlare.I like her outspoken way of speaking.
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Francesco and Martina are discussing a new colleague at work.
- FrancescoIl nuovo capo è un uomo molto schietto.The new boss is a very outspoken man.
- MartinaSì, dice sempre quello che pensa.Yes, he always says what he thinks.
- FrancescoÈ un bene per l'ufficio.It is a good thing for the office.
- MartinaConcordo, preferisco la sincerità.I agree, I prefer sincerity.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry schietto, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries schietto, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
