sei bellissima
The English phrase "you look beautiful" is translated into Italian as sei bellissima.
This phrase is a compliment used to tell a woman that she is physically attractive.
Which one should you use?
While sei bella means "you are beautiful", the form sei bellissima is a stronger, more emphatic compliment often used to mean "you look stunning" or "you are gorgeous".
How does it change in a sentence?
To use this phrase for a man, change the feminine ending -a to the masculine ending -o, resulting in sei bellissimo.
Did you know?
- Depending on the region, some Italians might use the word bella to describe something that is simply 'good' or 'substantial', such as una bella fetta di torta for 'a nice big slice of cake'.
- In Italy, saying sei bellissima is often accompanied by a light touch on the arm or shoulder, as physical proximity and touch are more common during compliments than in many English-speaking cultures.
- Italian has a specific word, bella figura, which describes the cultural importance of presenting oneself and behaving in a way that is aesthetically pleasing and socially respectable.
Examples in context
- Sei bellissima, anche con i capelli arruffati.You look beautiful, even with ruffled hair.This example shows how to use sei bellissima to compliment someone even with a messy appearance.Tatoeba #11617150 by Nuel, translation #11617149 by Nuel
- Sei bellissima con quel vestito rosso.You look beautiful in that red dress.
- Stasera sei bellissima.You look beautiful tonight.
Example conversation
Alessandro and Sofia are getting ready for a dinner party.
- SofiaAlessandro, ti piace il mio nuovo trucco?Alessandro, do you like my new makeup?
- AlessandroSì, sei bellissima, Sofia.Yes, you look beautiful, Sofia.
- SofiaGrazie, sei molto gentile.Thank you, you are very kind.
- AlessandroDico solo la verità.I am only telling the truth.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
