Ciao! If you’re here, it means you’re interested in learning how to say “wear” in Italian. Whether you’re planning a trip to Italy, want to impress an Italian friend, or simply love the language, knowing how to express this basic concept is essential. In this guide, I’ll introduce you to various ways to say “wear” in Italian, both formally and informally. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions for “Wear”
Let’s start by exploring some formal expressions to say “wear” in Italian. These are the phrases you would typically use in professional settings, formal conversations, or when speaking to someone you don’t know well.
1. Indossare
The most common and versatile verb for “wear” in Italian is “indossare.” It works for almost all types of clothing and accessories:
Devi indossare un completo per l’intervista di lavoro. (You have to wear a suit for the job interview.)
Here are some more examples to help you get familiar with “indossare”:
- Indossa un cappotto pesante in inverno. (Wear a heavy coat in winter.)
- I ragazzi indossano una camicia per la cerimonia. (The boys wear a shirt for the ceremony.)
- Indosserò questo abito elegante alla festa. (I will wear this elegant dress to the party.)
2. Portare
Another formal word you can use for “wear” is “portare.” Although “portare” primarily means “to carry,” it is also used to express wearing certain types of clothing, especially accessories:
Non dimenticare di portare l’orologio al meeting. (Don’t forget to wear the watch to the meeting.)
Let’s take a look at additional examples:
- Porta i guanti quando fa freddo. (Wear gloves when it’s cold.)
- Posso portare un cappello al matrimonio? (Can I wear a hat to the wedding?)
- Porterò le scarpe da ginnastica per l’allenamento. (I will wear sneakers for the workout.)
Informal Expressions for “Wear”
Now let’s move on to informal expressions for “wear” in Italian. These are the phrases you’d use when talking to friends, family, or in casual situations.
1. Mettersi
“Mettersi” is a versatile and commonly used verb in informal contexts to express “to wear.” It literally means “to put on oneself.” Here’s an example:
Oggi mi metto i jeans preferiti. (Today, I’m wearing my favorite jeans.)
More examples with “mettersi” are:
- Mi piace mettermi una felpa quando sono a casa. (I like to wear a sweatshirt when I’m at home.)
- Stasera ci mettiamo eleganti per la cena fuori. (Tonight, we will dress up for dinner outside.)
- Quando usciamo, ti metti mai gli occhiali da sole? (When we go out, do you ever wear sunglasses?)
2. Vestire
“Vestire” is less common in informal conversations but can still be used to convey “wear” in specific situations:
Non dimenticare di vestire i bambini con la giacca per uscire. (Don’t forget to dress the kids in jackets to go out.)
Additional examples with “vestire” include:
- Vesto sempre le scarpe comode quando vado in palestra. (I always wear comfortable shoes when I go to the gym.)
- Per l’escursione in montagna, vestiti in modo adeguato. (For the mountain hike, dress appropriately.)
- Sei pronta per uscire? Ti vesti velocemente! (Are you ready to go out? Get dressed quickly!)
Summary
In summary, when it comes to expressing “wear” in Italian, you have multiple options based on the formality of the situation. The formal expressions include “indossare” and “portare,” while the informal expressions are “mettersi” and “vestire.” Here’s a quick overview:
- Formal:
- Indossare
- Portare
- Informal:
- Mettersi
- Vestire
Remember, it’s important to adapt your language based on the context and the people you’re conversing with. These expressions will surely help you navigate conversations about clothing and personal style in Italian. Buona fortuna! (Good luck!)
