Native Idioms & Proverbs

Speaking like a native Italian at the B2 level means understanding and using cultural proverbs and colourful idiomatic expressions in everyday conversation. These expressions often cannot be translated word-for-word and carry deep cultural context.

Common Idiomatic Expressions

• In bocca al lupo! → Good luck! (Response: Crepi il lupo! or Viva il lupo!)
• In quattro e quattr'otto: in a flash / very quickly
• Avere le mani bucate: to spend money like water
• Acqua in bocca: keep it a secret / mum's the word
• Non vedere l'ora di (fare qualcosa): can't wait to do something

Everyday Proverbs

Chi dorme non piglia pesci (The early bird catches the worm) or Piove sul bagnato (When it rains, it pours).