ampia scelta
feminine
The English phrase smorgasbord can be translated into Italian as ampia scelta or varietà.
Meaning: diverse collection of things (noun)
Ways to say it
| Italian | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| ampia scelta | feminine | |
| varietà | /va.rjeˈta/ | feminine |
These terms are used to describe a diverse collection of things.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase ampia scelta literally translates to wide choice, while the word varietà literally means variety.
Which one should you use?
Ampia scelta is typically used when emphasizing the breadth or volume of options available, whereas varietà emphasizes the diversity or difference between the items.
Did you know?
- To describe a 'smorgasbord' of emotions or experiences, Italians often use un caleidoscopio, comparing the diversity to a kaleidoscope.
- The word scelta can also be used as an adjective to describe something 'exquisite' or 'premium', such as carne scelta for high-quality meat.
- In a culinary context, Italians might use misto to describe a smorgasbord-style plate, such as antipasto misto, where different appetizers are served together.
Examples in context
- Durante il matrimonio, verrà allestito un sontuoso banchetto con un ricco assortimento di piatti italiani.During the wedding, a sumptuous smorgasbord will be set up with a rich assortment of Italian dishes.
- Andiamo al ristorante Lasagne House, fanno un buffet fantastico ogni venerdì sera!Let's go to Lasagne House, they have an amazing buffet every Friday night!
- C'è un'ampia scelta di colori.There is a wide selection of colors.
- Il buffet offre un'ampia scelta di frutta.The buffet offers a diverse collection of fruit.
- Abbiamo un'ampia scelta di attività per bambini.We have a wide variety of activities for children.
Example conversation
Martina and Francesco are looking at a menu in a restaurant.
- MartinaGuarda, c'è un'ampia scelta di piatti vegani.Look, there is a wide selection of vegan dishes.
- FrancescoSì, sembra davvero molto interessante.Yes, it looks really interesting.
- MartinaVuoi ordinare qualcosa da condividere?Do you want to order something to share?
- FrancescoCertamente, scegliamo due o tre cose.Certainly, let's choose two or three things.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “smorgasbord” translations and entries varietà, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
