schiaffo
/ˈskjaf.fo/
The Italian word for the English phrase "smack" (as in to slap someone) is schiaffo.
In Italian, one typically uses the phrase dare uno schiaffo (to give a slap) rather than a single verb to express the action of slapping someone. Note that sentore refers to a distinct flavor and semalo refers to a sailing vessel.
Meaning: to slap someone (verb)
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈskjaf.fo/. The word has 2 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Instead of looking for a single verb to mean "to slap," you should use the phrase dare uno schiaffo.
Did you know?
- In Italian culture, receiving uno schiaffo in a public dispute is often viewed as a severe gesture of dishonor and aggression, far more significant than a mere physical altercation.
- Schiaffo may be related to the German word 'Schlappe', suggesting its roots trace back to Lombardic tribes.
- The term schiaffo is used metaphorically in the phrase uno schiaffo in faccia, which describes a sudden, shocking revelation or a harsh wake-up call.
Examples in context
- Ciao amore! Ti mando un bacione!Hi darling! Sending you a big kiss!
- Gli ha dato uno schiaffo molto forte.He gave him a very hard slap.
- Non dare uno schiaffo a tua sorella!Don't slap your sister!
Example conversation
Alessandro and Martina are arguing about a fight they saw.
- AlessandroHai visto che gli ha dato uno schiaffo?Did you see that she slapped him?
- MartinaSì, è stata una cosa terribile.Yes, it was a terrible thing.
- AlessandroNon credo che lo schiaffo fosse meritato.I don't think the slap was deserved.
- MartinaSono d'accordo, Alessandro.I agree, Alessandro.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry schiaffo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries schiaffo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
