Learn Italian: a beginner's journey

Italy is known the world over for its delicious food, which is seen as a symbol of quality and tradition. However, what people think Italy is like doesn't always match up with what Italians experience day to day. The way Italian food is shown in films, on TV and in restaurants abroad often doesn't reflect how it's eaten in Italy. In Italy, food is much more varied and linked to social and regional traditions. In many countries, the idea of Italian cuisine is linked to long, multi-course meals, flexible timetables and the ritual consumption of pasta, pizza and espresso. But there's more to it than that. In this post, we'll look at how meals are structured in Italy, taking into account regional differences and putting some common myths to rest. Breakfast in Italy Italian breakfast ( colazione ) is usually light and varied, but the traditions can differ quite a bit depending on the region and personal preferences .  Having breakfast at the bar  (coffee shop) is a great...

Italy is known throughout the world for its rich culture, art, cuisine... and for its gestures! Anyone who has had the opportunity to interact with an Italian knows how expressive they are when communicating, and gestures are an essential part of this expressiveness. In this article we will explore some of the most common Italian gestures and their meanings, along with some interesting facts about how the same gestures can be interpreted differently in other cultures. 1. The 'What do you want'? If you happen to see an Italian speaking, you have probably noticed this gesture. By joining all the fingers of the hand with the thumb, a sort of cone is formed that moves up and down. This gesture expresses confusion or frustration and can be translated as ' what do you want ' or 'what are you saying'. It is one of the most iconic symbols of being Italian. 2. The hand under the chin - I don't care By placing the fingers of the hand, excluding the thumb, under the c...

How many languages are spoken in Italy? Italy is a country rich in linguistic diversity, with numerous languages and dialects spoken throughout its territory. This richness reflects the country's complex cultural history. Let us have a look at how many languages are spoken in Italy and what language families they belong to.

In Italy, greetings are much more than simple courtesies - they are a pillar of the culture and an essential part of everyday social interactions. Whether it's a formal "buongiorno" or a warm hug between friends, the act of greeting reflects respect, friendliness and a desire to connect, however briefly. But the Italian culture of greeting goes beyond words. It includes gestures, eye contact and, in many cases, the famous "kiss on the cheek", which varies according to region or social setting. Understanding and using the appropriate greeting can make a significant difference in personal interactions and offers valuable insight into how Italians perceive social bonds and human connection. In this article, we'll look at the different forms of greeting in Italy, when and how to use them, and some fascinating traditions surrounding the practice that reveal much about the Italian way of life. Get ready to discover a world of expressions and gestures that will bri...

Greetings are one of the most important parts of any language, and in Italian they have a special cultural significance. Knowing how to greet someone properly is not just about being polite - it is also the first step to making a good impression and connecting with others in a meaningful way. Italian greetings vary depending on the time of day, the level of formality and whether you're arriving or departing. From the casual "Ciao" to the more formal "Buongiorno" or "Arrivederci", each greeting reflects the warm and hospitable nature of Italian culture. In this lesson we'll guide you through the most common Italian greetings, both formal and informal, and explain when and how to use them. We'll also give you some tips on how to navigate the nuances of Italian social etiquette so that you can greet people confidently in any situation. Let's get started! 1. Greetings in Italian when meeting someone Informal greeting CIAO - this is the inform...