sei così bella
/ˈsɛj koˈzi ˈbɛl.la/word by word
The English phrase "you look so beautiful" is expressed in Italian as sei così bella.
This phrase is used as a compliment to tell a woman or girl that she is very attractive.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "you are so beautiful".
How does it change in a sentence?
When complimenting a man, you must change the feminine adjective bella to the masculine adjective bello, resulting in sei così bello.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈsɛj koˈzi ˈbɛl.la/. The word has 4 syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- In Italy, calling someone bella is not always about physical looks. It can be used as a sarcastic or playful way to address a friend who has just done something silly or clumsy.
- The word bella is so central to Italian culture that it often evolves from an adjective into a noun. It is frequently used as a friendly greeting or a nickname for a woman, similar to how 'honey' or 'sweetie' is used in English.
- In the context of art and history, the term Bella was often used as a shorthand for the ideal of female beauty in the Renaissance, influencing centuries of Italian painting.
Examples in context
- Sei così bella stasera.You look so beautiful tonight.
- Giulia, sei così bella con quel vestito.Giulia, you look so beautiful in that dress.
Example conversation
Matteo and Giulia are getting ready for a dinner date.
- MatteoSei così bella, Giulia.You look so beautiful, Giulia.
- GiuliaGrazie, Matteo. Sei molto gentile.Thank you, Matteo. You are very kind.
- MatteoAndiamo subito a cena?Shall we go to dinner right away?
- GiuliaSì, sono pronta.Yes, I am ready.
