sogghigno
The English phrase 'smirk' is translated into Italian as sogghigno.
A smirk is a smile that appears affected, smug, insolent or contemptuous. In Italian, you can describe specific types of smirks using these phrases: sorriso compiaciuto for a self-satisfied smirk, sorriso canzonatorio for a mocking smirk or avere un sorriso di scherno to say one has a smirk on one's face.
Meaning: to smile in a way that is affected, smug, insolent or contemptuous (verb)
Which one should you use?
The word sogghigno focuses on the smugness of the expression. In contrast, smorfia is used when the smirk is more of a facial contortion or a mocking grimace. While sogghigno implies a contemptuous or smug smirk, sorrisetto is a diminutive of 'sorriso' and is often used to describe a small, sometimes playful or slightly mischievous smile rather than a purely insolent one.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun sogghigno is derived from the verb sogghignare, which means 'to smirk'.
Did you know?
- While smorfia can mean a mocking grimace, it also refers to a face made in traditional folk magic to ward off bad luck.
- In Italian, the diminutive sorrisetto can transform a 'smile' into something condescending or patronizing, whereas in English, 'little smile' often remains positive.
- The Italian term sorriso compiaciuto is built upon the verb compiacersi, which literally means 'to take pleasure in oneself', emphasizing the narcissism behind the smirk.
Examples in context
- Durante la riunione, ha sorriso beffardo per mascherare la sua vera intenzione.During the meeting, he smirked to disguise his true intentions.
- Quando gli ho detto una battuta, ha fatto un piccolo sorrisino.When I told him a joke, he gave me a little smirk.
- Non mi piace il tuo sogghigno.I don't like your smirk.
- Un piccolo sogghigno apparve sul suo volto.A small smirk appeared on his face.
Example conversation
Alessandro is being arrogant during a debate with Chiara.
- ChiaraPerché hai quel sogghigno, Alessandro?Why do you have that smirk, Alessandro?
- AlessandroNon ho fatto nulla, giuro.I didn't do anything, I swear.
- ChiaraSi vede che stai ridendo di me.It's obvious you are laughing at me.
- AlessandroForse è solo un modo di fare.Maybe it's just a way of acting.
