sei così cattivo
/ˈsɛj koˈzi katˈti.vo/word by word
The English phrase "you're so mean" is translated into Italian as sei così cattivo.
This phrase is used to tell someone that they are being unkind or cruel. While the word cattivo can mean "bad" or "evil", in this context it specifically translates to being "mean" or "unkind".
Which one should you use?
You can also use the exclamation che cattiveria! to say "how mean!" if you want to react to a mean action rather than describing a person's character.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form of the adjective changes depending on who you are addressing. If you are speaking to a female, the adjective changes from cattivo to cattiva, as in sei così cattiva. To address more than one person, use the plural form siete così cattivi for a group of males or a mixed group or siete così cattive for a group of females.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈsɛj koˈzi katˈti.vo/
Did you know?
- The word cattivo shares an unexpected history with the word 'captive'. It stems from the Latin 'captivus', evolving from the idea of someone 'caught' or 'captured' by the devil.
- In a playful or flirtatious context, sei cattivo can be used as a tease, similar to how an English speaker might say 'you're naughty'.
- In Italian, cattivo is used to describe things that taste bad or are of poor quality, not just people who are mean. You might describe a 'bad' smell or a 'bad' movie using the same word.
Examples in context
- Carlo, sei davvero cattivo. Non dovresti aver parlato così male di Anna.Carlo, you are really mean. You shouldn't have spoken so badly about Anna.
- Sei così cattivo con me.You're so mean to me.
- Perché sei così cattivo?Why are you being so mean?
- Non dire queste cose, sei così cattivo!Don't say those things, you're so mean!
Example conversation
Giulia is upset because Alessandro made a joke about her cooking.
- AlessandroIl tuo dolce è un disastro!Your dessert is a disaster!
- GiuliaSei così cattivo, Alessandro.You're so mean, Alessandro.
- AlessandroStavo solo scherzando.I was only joking.
- GiuliaNon è stato divertente.It wasn't funny.
