respiro sibilante
The English phrase "wheezing" is translated into Italian as respiro sibilante.
The term refers to a whistling sound made while breathing, often caused by asthma or other lung conditions.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of respiro (breath) and sibilante (hissing/whistling).
How does it change in a sentence?
Because respiro is a countable noun in this context, you can use the plural form respiri sibilanti to refer to multiple instances or breaths. The verb sibilare can be used to describe the action of wheezing or making a hissing sound.
Did you know?
- While respiro sibilante is the medical term, Italians may informally say someone has fischi in their chest, which literally translates to 'whistles'.
- In a social context, an Italian might use the verb sibilare to describe a sharp hiss used to show disapproval or anger toward someone.
- The verb sibilare is used to describe the specific sound a snake makes, linking a medical symptom to a reptilian hiss.
Examples in context
- Il paziente ha un respiro sibilante.The patient has a wheezing breath.
- Sento un respiro sibilante durante la notte.I hear a wheezing breath during the night.
- Il suo respiro sibilante indica un'allergia.Her wheezing breath indicates an allergy.
Example conversation
Matteo is talking to Chiara about his health.
- MatteoChiara, sento un respiro sibilante stasera.Chiara, I feel wheezing tonight.
- ChiaraForse è l'asma, Matteo.Maybe it is asthma, Matteo.
- MatteoSì, il mio respiro sibilante non passa.Yes, my wheezing won't go away.
- ChiaraPrendi subito l'inalatore.Take the inhaler right away.
