sei in forma
/ˈsɛj in ˈfor.ma/word by word
The English phrase "you're fit" is translated into Italian as sei in forma.
This phrase is used to tell someone that they are in good physical condition and healthy. You might say Sei proprio in forma! to mean "You're really fit!" or use variations like Sei davvero in grande forma! to say "You're really in great shape!" Other informal ways to compliment someone's appearance or fitness include Ma che fisico che hai! (What a great physique you have!) or Stai proprio bene! (You're looking really good!).
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase in forma literally translates to "in shape".
Which one should you use?
Use the infinitive essere in forma when you are talking about the general concept of being fit, rather than addressing a specific person. To address a group of people, use siete in forma instead of the singular sei in forma.
How does it change in a sentence?
When addressing more than one person, use siete in forma instead of the singular sei in forma.
How do you pronounce it?
The phrase has 3 syllables: /ˈsɛj in ˈfor.ma/. The stress is on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- In English, calling someone 'fit' is a common slang for being sexually attractive, but in Italian, telling someone sei in forma focuses strictly on their physical health or athletic condition.
- The word sei in the phrase sei in forma descends from the Latin sex and the Proto-Indo-European root *swéḱs.
- While sei in forma refers to physical health, the word forma is also used in sports to describe a team's current streak of success or failure, regardless of the players' actual gym fitness.
Examples in context
- Antonio, sei davvero in grande forma! I tuoi sforzi sono stati premiati!Antonio, you're really in great shape! Your efforts have paid off!
- Sei in forma, complimenti!You're fit, compliments!
- Sei in forma oggi!You're fit today!
- Vedo che sei in forma.I see that you are fit.
Example conversation
Giulia and Francesco are at the gym.
- GiuliaFrancesco, sei in forma!Francesco, you're fit!
- FrancescoGrazie, Giulia.Thanks, Giulia.
- GiuliaTi alleni molto?Do you train a lot?
- FrancescoSì, tre volte a settimana.Yes, three times a week.
