amico speciale
/aˈmi.ko speˈt͡ʃa.le/word by word
In Italian, the phrase for special friend is amico speciale.
This phrase describes a person who is a very close and important friend. It is important to note that amico speciale is also commonly used as a euphemism to refer to a romantic partner or someone you are seeing without a formal label.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase must agree with the gender and number of the person or people you are describing. Use amica speciale if the special friend is female. For a group of male friends or a mixed-gender group, use the masculine plural amici speciali. If you are describing a group consisting only of female friends, use the feminine plural amiche speciali.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /aˈmi.ko speˈtʃa.le/. It has 5 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable.
Did you know?
- If you use amico speciale to describe a close platonic companion, you might accidentally cause a scandal. In many social circles, it functions as a common euphemism for a romantic or sexual partner.
- The word amico shares a common ancestor with the English word 'amicable', which describes a friendly or peaceable relationship.
- While amico speciale can imply a romantic bond, Italians use anima gemella to describe a 'soul mate', which represents a spiritual connection that transcends a 'special friendship'.
Examples in context
- Lui è un amico speciale per me.He is a special friend to me.
- Hai un amico speciale che ti aiuta sempre?Do you have a special friend who always helps you?
Example conversation
Giulia is talking to Matteo about a person she values.
- GiuliaChi è quella persona con te in foto?Who is that person with you in the photo?
- MatteoÈ un mio amico speciale dell'infanzia.He is a special friend of mine from childhood.
- GiuliaSi vede che siete molto legati.It's clear that you are very close.
- MatteoSì, è davvero un amico speciale.Yes, he is truly a special friend.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (amico, speciale) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries amico, speciale, CC BY-SA 4.0.
