sopraffatto
The English phrase overwhelmed is translated into Italian as sopraffatto.
sopraffatto is used to describe the sensation of being overwhelmed. To specify the cause of this feeling, use the preposition da (by) rather than con (with), as in sopraffatto da (overwhelmed by).
Which one should you use?
While sopraffatto is the standard translation, you can use in preda all'ansia specifically when you want to formally convey that someone is overwhelmed by anxiety or stress. In informal settings, you might use the metaphorical term schiacciato/a, which translates to being crushed by burdens or pressure.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form of the word changes to match the gender and number of the people being described. Use sopraffatto for a male, sopraffatta for a female, sopraffatti for a group of males or a mixed-gender group and sopraffatte for a group of females.
What mistakes should you avoid?
When stating what is causing the feeling, avoid using con (with). Instead, use the preposition da to say sopraffatto da (overwhelmed by).
Did you know?
- In Italian, the feeling of being overwhelmed is often described as being 'possessed' by a sensation when using the phrase in preda a. This suggests the emotion has taken control of the person.
- If you are overwhelmed by a sudden rush of work, an Italian might say they are sommerso dal lavoro, which literally means 'submerged' or 'underwater' by work.
- While sopraffatto is the standard translation, Italians often use the word stressato in casual conversation, which is a direct loanword from English.
Examples in context
- Lui sembrava essere sopraffatto.He looked like he was overwhelmed.This sentence shows how to use sopraffatto to describe someone's appearance.Tatoeba #13978637 by Guybrush88, translation #7394845 by CH
- Mi sento sopraffatto dallo stress.I'm feeling overwhelmed with stress.This sentence demonstrates the correct use of sopraffatto with a cause of stress.Tatoeba #12109913 by Nuel, translation #12109912 by Nuel
- Si sente sopraffatto dalla situazione.He feels overwhelmed by the situation.This sentence illustrates how to describe being overwhelmed by a specific situation.Tatoeba #13166012 by Nuel, translation #13166011 by Nuel
- Mi sento preso/a dal panico per tutte le scadenze imminenti.I feel overwhelmed with panic due to all the approaching deadlines.
- Mi sento completamente schiacciato/a dal lavoro che devo svolgere.I feel completely overwhelmed by the work I have to do.
- 11 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Francesco is talking to Giulia about his new job.
- FrancescoHo troppe cose da fare, mi sento sopraffatto.I have too many things to do, I feel overwhelmed.
- GiuliaVuoi che ti aiuti con qualche compito, Francesco?Do you want me to help you with some tasks, Francesco?
- FrancescoSì, grazie, sono davvero sopraffatto oggi.Yes, thanks, I am really overwhelmed today.
- GiuliaNon preoccuparti, Giulia è qui per aiutarti.Don't worry, Giulia is here to help you.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
