signorina
/siɲ.ɲoˈri.na/
The English phrase 'senorita' is translated into Italian as signorina.
signorina is a polite title used to address an unmarried woman.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 4 syllables, with the stress on the 3rd syllable. The IPA is /siɲ.ɲoˈri.na/.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use the Spanish word 'senorita' instead of the Italian signorina.
Did you know?
- The word signorina is often used ironically in Italy when referring to a woman who is acting overly refined, posh or demanding, similar to how 'princess' might be used in English.
- The word signorina shares its root with 'signore', the masculine version, meaning both terms are actually derived from the Latin word 'senior', which means 'older'.
- While English speakers use 'Miss' as a title, calling a young woman signorina in some formal Italian settings might actually feel patronizing rather than respectful.
Examples in context
- Buongiorno, signorina.Good morning, miss.
- La signorina è molto gentile.The young lady is very kind.
Example conversation
Alessandro is asking a young woman for directions in the street.
- ChiaraMi scusi, signorina, dov'è la posta?Excuse me, miss, where is the post office?
- AlessandroÈ proprio dietro l'angolo, Alessandro.It is right around the corner, Alessandro.
- ChiaraGrazie mille per l'aiuto!Thank you very much for the help!
- AlessandroPrego, arrivederci!You're welcome, goodbye!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry signorina, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries signorina, CC BY-SA 4.0.
