🇮🇹 10 Must-Know Italian Phrases That Locals Actually Use
- Yaraslau Muradzian
- Apr 22
- 2 min read
Whether you're traveling through Italy, settling in as an expat, or polishing your Italian as a student, you’ve probably realized something: textbook Italian isn’t exactly what people speak on the street.
Locals use phrases, expressions, and shortcuts that you won’t always find in traditional lessons — and that’s exactly what we’re diving into today. Learn these 10 super common Italian phrases, and you’ll blend in like a local in no time.
1. “Che ne so?” – “How should I know?”
A casual way to say you have no idea. You’ll hear this everywhere.
Example:– Perché non è venuto?– Che ne so!
2. “Boh.” – “I don’t know” / “Who knows”
The shortest way to shrug off uncertainty. Add a facial shrug for authenticity.
3. “Figurati!” – “No worries!” / “Don’t mention it!”
Used when someone thanks you — or apologizes. Also handy for sounding effortlessly chill.
4. “Magari!” – “If only!” / “I wish!”
This single word packs emotion. Expresses hope, longing, or dreams.
Example:– Andiamo a Venezia domani?– Magari!
5. “Dai!” – “Come on!”
You’ll hear this in all kinds of situations — urging someone to do something, reacting with disbelief, or encouraging a friend.
Example:– Non vieni alla festa? Dai!
6. “Meno male!” – “Thank goodness!”
Literally “less bad,” this phrase is how Italians express relief.
Example:– Ha superato l’esame.– Meno male!
7. “Ma va!” – “No way!” / “Get out!”
An expression of disbelief, often said with a smirk or a laugh.
8. “Ci sta.” – “Makes sense” / “Fair enough”
Used when something feels acceptable or fitting in a situation.
Example:– Andiamo in treno, ci sta.
9. “Non ce la faccio.” – “I can’t take it” / “I can’t handle it”
Used for physical or emotional exhaustion — super useful and expressive.
10. “È un casino.” – “It’s a mess.”
A slightly informal way to say things are chaotic, disorganized, or complicated.
Example:– Com’è la situazione là?– È un casino.
💬 Bonus Tip: Want to Hear These Phrases in Real Conversations?
At eosling.com, we feature real Italian dialogues with natural pronunciation, phonetic transcriptions, and English translations — so you can not only recognize these phrases but say them like a native.
Check out a sample dialogue here!
Which of these phrases have you heard before — or used yourself? Drop a comment below and share your favorite Italian expression! 👇
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