zero
/ˈd͡zɛ.ro/masculine
The English word "zero" is translated into Italian as zero.
zero is used to denote the number 0 in mathematical, scientific and counting contexts, much like in English. It can also refer to the digit zero. In technical fields such as mathematics and computer science, you may encounter the term Nullo to represent zero.
Meaning: cardinal number before 1, denoting nothing (num)
Which one should you use?
While zero is the standard term for the number, you might use Niente in informal situations to indicate that there is nothing.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
As a cardinal number, zero is invariable in both gender and number.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ˈdzɛ.ro/. It has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- In Italian, calling someone a zero is a harsh insult implying they have no talent, value or importance in a specific field.
- The Italian word zero is a sibling of cifra, which means 'digit' or 'figure'. Both words trace their roots back to the same Arabic word for 'nothing'.
- In Italian sports like tennis, the word zero is used exactly as in English, but in football scores, Italians often say zero even when the English would say 'nil'.
Examples in context
- Io sono uno zero.I'm a zero.The first sentence uses zero to illustrate a metaphorical use for a person.Tatoeba #5190649 by Guybrush88, translation #25511 by gin
- Questo ha zero calorie.This has zero calories.The second sentence shows zero being used to specify a quantity of calories.Tatoeba #9708542 by Guybrush88, translation #9300174 by DJ_Saidez
- Zero viene prima di uno.Zero comes before one.The third sentence uses zero to describe its numerical position in a sequence.Tatoeba #967900 by Guybrush88, translation #682520 by Source_VOA
- 32 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Chiara and Francesco are checking the temperature on a thermometer.
- FrancescoLa temperatura è a zero gradi.The temperature is at zero degrees.
- ChiaraDavvero? Fa molto freddo oggi.Really? It is very cold today.
- FrancescoSì, siamo a zero.Yes, we are at zero.
- ChiaraAllora devo mettermi il cappotto.Then I must put on my coat.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “zero” translations and entries zero, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries zero, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
