con parsimonia
/kon par.siˈmɔ.nja/word by word
The English phrase "sparingly" is translated into Italian as con parsimonia.
The phrase is used to describe performing an action in a way that avoids waste or excess, such as using ingredients in a recipe or using resources.
Meaning: in a sparing manner (adv)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the preposition con (with) and the noun parsimonia (parsimony/thriftiness).
Which one should you use?
Con parsimonia is more common in standard and formal written Italian, whereas the single-word alternative parsimoniosamente can feel slightly more technical or heavy.
How does it change in a sentence?
parsimoniosamente is the adverbial form and serves as a single-word alternative to the prepositional phrase con parsimonia.
How do you pronounce it?
It has 4 syllables, with the stress on the 3rd syllable.
Did you know?
- The adjective parsimonioso can be used as a polite euphemism to call someone 'stingy' without using the harsher word tirchio.
- In Italian, the concept of acting con parsimonia is often tied to the virtue of temperanza, framing the act of not wasting as a moral strength.
- While con parsimonia implies careful use, the adjective parsimonioso can be a double-edged sword, describing someone who is either prudently thrifty or annoyingly stingy.
Examples in context
- È importante utilizzare l'elettricità con parsimoniaIt's important to use electricity sparingly
- Usa il condimento con un po' di parsimoniaUse the seasoning sparingly
- Dovresti consumare i dolci con parsimonia, in quanto possono essere dannosi per la salute.You should consume sweets sparingly as they can be harmful to your health.
- Usa il sale con parsimonia.Use salt sparingly.
- Spendi i tuoi soldi con parsimonia.Spend your money sparingly.
- Il capo distribuisce i premi con parsimonia.The boss distributes bonuses sparingly.
Example conversation
Martina and Lorenzo are discussing a new recipe in the kitchen.
- MartinaQuesta salsa è molto piccante.This sauce is very spicy.
- LorenzoAllora aggiungila con parsimonia.Then add it sparingly.
- MartinaVa bene, ne metto solo un po'.Okay, I'll only put a little.
- LorenzoGrazie, Martina.Thanks, Martina.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (con, parsimonia) and can differ in connected speech.
