Ways to say it
| Italian | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| simbolo | /ˈsim.bo.lo/ | masculine |
| segno | /ˈseɲ.ɲo/ | masculine |
In a general sense, a token refers to something that serves as an expression of something else. When you want to express the specific English phrase 'in token of' or 'as a token of', especially when presenting a gift or a gesture, the standard way to do this in Italian is to use the phrase in segno di. Additionally, in specific formal contexts such as computer programming or cryptocurrency, the English term 'token' is often used, while in contexts like public transportation or arcades, the Italian word gettone is used to refer to a physical token.
How does it change in a sentence?
Both simbolo and segno are masculine nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
The word simbolo is pronounced /ˈsim.bo.lo/. It has three syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- The word simbolo originates from the Greek súmbolon, which referred to a broken piece of pottery used as a matching token to identify a friend.
- Physical tokens like gettone are derived from the verb gettare, which means 'to throw'.
- In Italian music notation, a segno is a specific sign used to indicate a jump to another part of the piece.
Examples in context
- Questo è un segno del nostro amore.This is a token of our love.This sentence is useful for showing how to use segno to express a token of love.Tatoeba #9821699 by Guybrush88, translation #9817124 by DJ_Saidez
- Ecco un regalo per te in segno del nostro apprezzamento.Here is a present for you in token of our appreciation.This sentence shows how to use segno when giving a gift as a token of appreciation.Tatoeba #3339049 by Guybrush88, translation #55640 by CK
- Ho bisogno di un token per accedere al mio account.I need a token to access my account.
- Dovete usare un gettone per far funzionare questa macchina.You need to use a token to operate this machine.
- Ho dimenticato il mio tesserino per accedere all'ufficio.I forgot my token to access the office.
- La colomba è un simbolo di pace.The dove is a symbol of peace.
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lorenzo and Martina are discussing a piece of jewelry.
- LorenzoQuesto anello è un simbolo del nostro impegno.This ring is a symbol of our commitment.
- MartinaÈ bellissimo, Lorenzo.It is beautiful, Lorenzo.
- LorenzoSpero che ti piaccia.I hope you like it.
- MartinaLo amerò per sempre.I will love it forever.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “token” translations and entries simbolo, segno, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries segno, simbolo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
