tanto affetto
/ˈtan.to afˈfɛt.to/word by word
The English phrase "sending love" can be expressed in Italian as tanto affetto.
tanto affetto is typically used as a sign-off in written correspondence, such as cards, emails or letters, to convey a warm expression of affection and care.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "much affection". The word tanto is an adjective meaning "much" or "so much", and affetto is a masculine singular noun.
How does it change in a sentence?
In this phrase, tanto is an adjective and affetto is a masculine singular noun.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ˈtan.to afˈfɛt.to/. It has 4 syllables, and the stress is on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- In modern digital messaging, Italians often replace formal sign-offs like tanto affetto with the abbreviation tvb, which stands for ti voglio bene.
- If you were to use amore instead of affetto in a casual letter to a friend, it could be misinterpreted as a romantic confession in many Italian social contexts.
- The word tanto shares its origin with the English word 'tantamount', which describes something that is equivalent in value or importance.
Examples in context
- Vi mando tanto affetto da Roma.I am sending you all much affection from Rome.
Example conversation
Martina is writing a digital card to Francesco.
- MartinaCaro Francesco, spero che tu stia bene.Dear Francesco, I hope you are doing well.
- FrancescoGrazie Martina, sono molto contento di sentirti.Thanks Martina, I am very happy to hear from you.
- MartinaTi mando tanto affetto per il tuo compleanno.I'm sending love for your birthday.
- FrancescoSei molto gentile, grazie di cuore!You are very kind, thank you from my heart!
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (tanto, affetto) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries affetto, tanto, CC BY-SA 4.0.
