amico
/aˈmi.ko/
In Italian, the English phrase 'pal' is translated as amico.
The word amico is the standard, neutral way to say 'friend' in Italian.
Meaning: (colloquial) a friend (noun)
Which one should you use?
While the English word 'pal' is often colloquial, the Italian amico is a standard term that can be used in a wide range of settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word changes based on the gender and number of the people you are talking about. Use amica for a female friend. For a group of male friends or a mixed-gender group, use the plural form amici. If you are referring to a group consisting only of female friends, use amiche.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /aˈmi.ko/ and has three syllables. The stress is on the second syllable.
Did you know?
- To express the idea of a 'best pal', Italians often use the phrase amico del cuore, which literally translates to 'friend of the heart'.
- In some regions of Italy, especially in the south, you might hear people use the word compare to refer to a close friend, even if there is no actual godparent relationship involved.
- The word amico shares a common ancestor with the English word 'amicable', which describes a friendly or peaceable relationship.
Examples in context
- È il suo amico di penna.He's her pen pal.This sentence shows how to use amico to refer to a pen pal.Tatoeba #11292629 by Guybrush88, translation #8401100 by Amastan
- Voglio un amico di penna.I want a pen pal.This sentence demonstrates the desire to have a pen pal using amico.Tatoeba #6104914 by Guybrush88, translation #1264323 by CK
- Ho un amico di penna in Australia.I have a pen pal in Australia.This sentence illustrates how to mention having a pen pal in a specific location using amico.Tatoeba #5900264 by Guybrush88, translation #5193190 by CK
- Ciao, amico! Come stai?Hello, pal! How are you?
- 9 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Giulia and Francesco are at a cafe discussing their social circles.
- GiuliaConosci il mio amico Marco?Do you know my friend Marco?
- FrancescoNo, non conosco quel ragazzo.No, I don't know that guy.
- GiuliaÈ un amico molto simpatico.He is a very nice friend.
- FrancescoAllora vorrei conoscerlo.Then I would like to meet him.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry amico, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries amico, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
