pollo novello
The English phrase 'spring chicken' can be translated into Italian as pollo novello.
This phrase refers to a young person. It is most commonly used in a negative context to imply that someone is no longer young.
Did you know?
- While pollo novello describes age, the word pollo alone is used in Italian slang to describe a gullible person who is easily tricked, similar to the English 'sucker'.
- The adjective novello can be used to describe a beginner in a profession, such as a novello scrittore for a budding writer, without mentioning chickens at all.
- The word novello shares its Latin roots with the English word 'novella', referring to a short story or a new piece of news.
Examples in context
- Pensava che fossi un pollo novello.He thought I was a spring chicken.
Example conversation
Chiara and Lorenzo are talking about starting a new sport.
- ChiaraVuoi provare a fare surf con me?Do you want to try surfing with me?
- LorenzoNon credo di poterci riuscire, Chiara.I don't think I can do it, Chiara.
- ChiaraMa dai, non sei mica vecchio!Come on, you're not old!
- LorenzoSì, ma non sono più un pollo novello.Yes, but I'm not a spring chicken anymore.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries novello, pollo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
