Heather Broster
Ci è mancato poco is a common Italian expression used to indicate that an event, often negative, was narrowly avoided. It corresponds perfectly to the English idiom “a close one” or “a close call”. Ci è mancato poco! That was a close one! Let’s break it down into its component parts: Let’s start with the …
The generic noun used to refer to someone who steals is ladro in Italian. When referring to a woman, it is possible to use the feminine equivalent ladra. ladro thief The definite and indefinite articles for ladro and ladra are as follows: Figuratively speaking, you can use this word to describe someone who engages in …
Since I began learning languages over 20 years ago, one thing that has always struck me is how often different languages have idioms or proverbs that convey the same idea, yet express it in completely different ways. A good example is today’s proverb, Il mattino ha l’oro in bocca, which roughly corresponds to the English …
When I’m not working in front of the computer or working out at the leisure centre, I take great pleasure in tending to our local community allotment. Every year we plant different kinds of verdure (vegetables) to share with our community fridge – though admittedly some years have been more successful than others! On occasion …
Today’s idiomatic expression has a direct equivalent in English, yet, as we’re about to see, the two expressions couldn’t be more different in imagery. In English, when we attempt something beyond our true abilities without considering the possible consequences, we’re often warned not to “bite off more than we can chew.“ Italian offers an expression …
Recently my son has become obsessed with the iconic film Muppet Treasure Island, which is celebrating its 30 year anniversary this year. Come vola il tempo! (How time flies!) If you haven’t seen it, it is definitely worth watching for Tim Curry’s performance. alone. One adorable mistake he always makes when talking about the pirates …