ma sì
/ma ˈsi/word by word
In Italian, the phrase "why yes" is expressed as ma sì.
ma sì is used to express enthusiastic agreement or to confirm a point with added emphasis.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "but yes".
Which one should you use?
While sì is a simple 'yes', adding ma at the beginning functions like the English "why yes" to add emotional weight or conviction.
How do you pronounce it?
/ma ˈsi/
Did you know?
- The word ma comes from the Latin magis, which means 'more', reflecting how the phrase adds 'more' intensity to the agreement.
- If you use ma sì while gesturing with a slight shrug or a wave of the hand, you signal that the agreement is entirely obvious or effortless.
- In Italian, ma sì is frequently used to dismiss a worry, acting as a way to say 'of course it will be fine' or 'don't be silly'.
Examples in context
- Ma sì, certo che vengo!Why yes, of course I'm coming!
- Vuoi un altro caffè? Ma sì, grazie.Do you want another coffee? Why yes, thank you.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (ma, sì) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ma, sì, CC BY-SA 4.0.
