tranquillamente
The English word 'quietly' is translated into Italian as tranquillamente.
tranquillamente is used to describe actions performed in a quiet manner, often implying a sense of peace, calm or a lack of disturbance.
Meaning: producing little or no noise (adv)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed from the adjective tranquillo (meaning calm or quiet) and the suffix -mente, which is the Italian equivalent of the English suffix '-ly'. Literally, it means 'tranquilly' or 'calmly'.
Which one should you use?
While tranquillamente implies a sense of peace or being undisturbed, the word silenziosamente is used specifically to emphasize the total absence of sound (silently). If you wish to describe speaking in a subdued voice, you can use the phrase sotto voce.
Did you know?
- While tranquillamente usually means 'quietly' or 'calmly', Italians often use it as a slangy way to say 'no problem' or 'it is all good' when reacting to a mistake or a change in plans.
- The Italian suffix -mente in tranquillamente is derived from the Latin word 'mens', meaning 'mind'.
- Telling someone stai tranquillo may not be a request for silence, but rather a subtle way to tell them to 'calm down' or 'stop worrying'.
Examples in context
- Tom era seduto tranquillamente.Tom sat quietly.This sentence shows how to use tranquillamente to describe a state of sitting quietly.Tatoeba #5425767 by Guybrush88, translation #2237647 by CK
- Mio nonno vuole vivere tranquillamente per il resto della sua vita.My grandfather wants to live quietly for the rest of his life.This sentence uses tranquillamente to describe living a quiet, peaceful life.Tatoeba #1607440 by hitori37, translation #273876 by CK
- Per favore, parli più sottovoce.Please, speak more quietly.
- Parla più piano, per favore.Speak more quietly, please.
- Il gatto dorme tranquillamente sul divano.The cat is sleeping quietly on the sofa.
Example conversation
Giulia and Matteo are in a library.
- GiuliaParla più tranquillamente, Matteo.Speak more quietly, Matteo.
- MatteoScusa, non me ne sono accorto.Sorry, I didn't notice.
- GiuliaDobbiamo stare tranquillamente qui.We need to be quiet here.
- MatteoHai ragione, scusami ancora.You are right, sorry again.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries tranquillamente, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
