Ciao! In this guide, we will explore the various ways to express the word “rotten” in Italian. Whether you want to use this word in a formal or informal setting, we’ve got you covered. While we focus primarily on standard Italian, we’ll mention some regional variations as necessary. With plenty of tips and examples, you’ll soon be able to incorporate this word into your Italian conversations with ease.
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Formal Ways to Say Rotten in Italian
When it comes to formal language, Italian offers a range of options to describe something as rotten. Here are a few formal words and phrases:
1. Marcio
The most common formal word for “rotten” is “marcio.” It can be used to describe both food and non-food items. For example:
La frutta è marcia. – The fruit is rotten.
Quell’idea è marcia. – That idea is rotten.
2. Putrefatto
If you are looking for a more sophisticated word, “putrefatto” might be a suitable choice. It conveys a stronger sense of decay and decomposition. Here are a couple of examples:
Quel cibo è putrefatto. – That food is rotten.
La carne è putrefatta. – The meat is rotten.
3. Corrotto
Another option to express “rotten” in a formal context is “corrotto.” While primarily used to describe moral corruption, it can also be extended to other situations:
Il sistema è corrotto. – The system is rotten.
L’aria è corrotta da questa puzza. – The air is rotten because of this smell.
Informal Ways to Say Rotten in Italian
If you prefer a more casual tone or want to express “rotten” in everyday conversations, these informal expressions will come in handy:
1. Marcio
Yes, “marcio” can also be used informally. It’s a versatile word that can be employed in both formal and informal contexts. Here are some casual examples:
Lui è un tipo marcio. – He’s a rotten guy.
Hanno tirato una mela marcia. – They threw a rotten apple.
2. Marcio fino al midollo
If you want to emphasize extreme rottenness, you can use the expression “marcio fino al midollo,” which translates to “rotten to the core.” This phrase adds extra emphasis and is great for emphasizing disgust:
Quella persona è marcia fino al midollo. – That person is rotten to the core.
Questo pesce è marcio fino al midollo. – This fish is rotten to the core.
Regional Variations
Although standard Italian is widely understood throughout Italy, there are some regional variations to express “rotten.” Here are a couple of examples:
1. Guasto (Northern Italy)
In Northern Italy, particularly in Lombardy and Piedmont, the word “guasto” can be used informally to mean “rotten.” This term is usually limited to describing food:
La frutta è guasta. – The fruit is rotten.
Ho mangiato una mela guasta. – I ate a rotten apple.
2. Fetente (Southern Italy)
In Southern Italy, particularly in Campania and Sicily, the word “fetente” is sometimes used informally to convey the notion of “rotten.” It is mainly used to describe people:
Quel ragazzo è un fetente. – That boy is a rotten person.
Fa caldo qui, l’aria è fetente! – It’s hot here, the air is rotten!
Wrap Up
You’ve reached the end of our comprehensive guide on how to say “rotten” in Italian. We’ve covered both formal and informal expressions, with a sprinkle of regional variations. Remember, “marcio” is the go-to word for standard Italian, while “guasto” and “fetente” add regional flavors. Now you can integrate this vocabulary into your conversations and express your thoughts about rottenness with confidence and flair. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll speak Italian like a native!
