10 Common Italian Idioms and Expressions You Should Know

Italian is full of colorful idioms that make conversations more lively and natural. Learning these expressions will help you understand locals better and sound more fluent.

a narrow alleyway with shops

Popular Italian Idioms

  1. In bocca al lupo – “Good luck” (literally: Into the wolf’s mouth)
  2. Chi dorme non piglia pesci – “You snooze, you lose” (literally: Those who sleep don’t catch fish)
  3. Acqua in bocca – “Keep it a secret” (literally: Water in your mouth)
  4. Essere al verde – “To be broke” (literally: To be at green)
  5. Non tutte le ciambelle riescono col buco – “Not everything goes as planned” (literally: Not all doughnuts come out with a hole)

Tip: Using idioms naturally takes practice. Try sprinkling one or two in your conversations with friends or teachers.

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