stalla
/ˈstal.la/
The English verb 'to stall', in the sense of employing delaying tactics, is translated into Italian as stalla.
Meaning: to employ delaying tactics (verb)
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ˈstal.la/. It has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- The word stalla is used in Italian to describe a messy or crowded room, such as a 'pigsty', as a metaphorical insult.
- The similarity between the English 'stall' and the Italian stalla is a result of ancient Germanic influence on the Italian lexicon, rather than a shared Latin root.
- In Italian, the idea of 'stalling' a conversation is more naturally expressed using the verb prendere tempo, which literally means 'to take time'.
Example conversation
Francesco and Martina are discussing a late project deadline.
- FrancescoQuando finirai il tuo rapporto, Francesco?When will you finish your report, Francesco?
- MartinaHo solo bisogno di un altro giorno.I just need one more day.
- FrancescoSmettila, sai che stalla da una settimana!Stop it, I know you've been stalling for a week!
- MartinaHai ragione, lo consegnerò domani mattina.You're right, I'll hand it in tomorrow morning.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry stalla, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries stalla, CC BY-SA 4.0.
