vaschetta da asporto
The Italian phrase for 'to go box' is vaschetta da asporto.
The term vaschetta da asporto refers to the physical container itself used for carrying food bought at a restaurant to be eaten elsewhere. While it specifically implies a small, often shallow tray or tub, you can also use the more general term contenitore da asporto for any type of takeaway container.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of vaschetta (small tray or container), da (for or to be used for) and asporto (takeaway or carrying away).
Which one should you use?
vaschetta da asporto is used when referring to a small, shallow tray or tub, whereas contenitore da asporto is a broader term that can describe any kind of container used for takeaway.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Lombardy region, the word schiscetta is used to refer to a to go box or a container for leftovers.
Did you know?
- The term asporto comes from the verb asportare, which in legal or formal contexts can mean 'to steal' or 'to remove' something illegally.
- The word vaschetta is a diminutive form. It combines vasca, meaning 'tub' or 'basin', with the suffix -etta to indicate a smaller, handheld size.
- If you want your leftovers in a container, you can ask for il contenitore per gli avanzi. The word avanzi specifically refers to the scraps or remains of a meal.
Examples in context
- Puoi metterlo in una vaschetta da asporto?Can you put it in a to go box?
- Mi serve una vaschetta da asporto per la pasta.I need a to go box for the pasta.
- Hai una vaschetta da asporto per gli avanzi?Do you have a to go box for the leftovers?
Example conversation
Lorenzo is at a restaurant with Chiara and cannot finish his meal.
- LorenzoChiara, non riesco a finire tutto il piatto.Chiara, I can't finish the whole dish.
- ChiaraChiedi al cameriere una vaschetta da asporto.Ask the waiter for a to go box.
- LorenzoHai ragione, ora chiamo il cameriere.You're right, I'll call the waiter now.
- ChiaraCosì puoi mangiarlo a casa domani.That way you can eat it at home tomorrow.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries da, vaschetta, CC BY-SA 4.0.
