retrò
The Italian word for "retro" is retrò.
The adjective retrò is used to describe things that relate to the past or the way things used to be. In addition to retrò, you might use the expressions vecchio stile to mean "old-fashioned" or d'altri tempi to describe something that is "from another time".
Meaning: of, or relating to the past, past times, or the way things were (adj)
How does it change in a sentence?
The Italian spelling of this word includes a grave accent on the final 'o' to indicate that the stress falls on that syllable.
Did you know?
- Unlike most Italian adjectives that change their ending to match the gender and number of the noun, retrò remains invariable.
- In Italian, using the word retrò to describe a person can actually be a compliment. While it means 'old-fashioned' in English, in Italy it often implies a sense of timeless elegance or a sophisticated, classic charm.
- While retrò is a loanword from French, it has been fully integrated into Italian fashion terminology. It is often used in high-end Italian boutiques to distinguish between 'vintage' items and items that are simply 'old'.
Examples in context
- Questa macchina fotografica è retrò.This camera is retro.
- Il tuo stile di abbigliamento è davvero retrò.Your fashion style is really retro.
- Ho comprato una giacca vintage al mercatino delle pulci.I bought a vintage jacket at the flea market.
- Quel bar ha un'atmosfera anni '70 davvero autentica.That bar has a truly authentic '70s atmosphere.
- Ascoltiamo musica vintage quando siamo in macchina.We listen to vintage music when we're in the car.
- Questo negozio vende abiti retrò.This shop sells retro clothes.
- Mi piace molto il suo stile retrò.I really like her retro style.
- Abbiamo arredato la casa con mobili retrò.We furnished the house with retro furniture.
Example conversation
Alessandro and Chiara are browsing a vintage furniture store.
- AlessandroGuarda questo mobile retrò, Chiara!Look at this retro piece of furniture, Chiara!
- ChiaraÈ bellissimo, ma è troppo costoso.It is beautiful, but it is too expensive.
- AlessandroSì, ma lo stile è unico.Yes, but the style is unique.
- ChiaraHai ragione, cerchiamo qualcosa di simile.You are right, let's look for something similar.
