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What are some common idiomatic expressions in Italian at the C1 level visualisation

What are some common idiomatic expressions in Italian at the C1 level

Comprehensive Guide to C1-Level Italian Vocabulary: What are some common idiomatic expressions in Italian at the C1 level
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Here are some common Italian idiomatic expressions suitable for learners at the C1 level:

  • A mali estremi, estremi rimedi: Desperate times call for desperate measures.
  • A quattro palmenti: Eating a lot or “stuffing one’s face.”
  • Acqua in bocca!: Keep it a secret or “mum’s the word.”
  • Cadere dalle nuvole: To be completely surprised or caught off guard.
  • Carta canta: Written proof is undeniable.
  • Cavallo di battaglia: Someone’s strong suit or best work.
  • Costa un occhio della testa: Something is extremely expensive (like “costs an arm and a leg”).
  • Da che pulpito viene la predica!: Criticizing someone for hypocrisy (like “the pot calling the kettle black”).
  • Dai tempo al tempo: Be patient; things will resolve in time.
  • Due pesi e due misure: A double standard.
  • Saltare di palo in frasca: To change topics abruptly or be scatterbrained.
  • Far ridere i polli: To be utterly ridiculous or laughable.

These idioms are widely used in everyday conversations and help express nuanced ideas, making conversations more natural and engaging. 1

Additionally, here are some more idiomatic expressions with their meanings often used at advanced levels:

  • Avere le mani di pasta frolla: Someone who drops everything (butterfingers).
  • Essere buono come il pane: To be very good-natured (to have a heart of gold).
  • Avere il prosciutto sugli occhi: To not see what’s obvious.
  • Andare a tutta birra: Going very fast or full throttle.
  • Essere tutto fumo e niente arrosto: All show and no substance.
  • Allungare il brodo: Adding unnecessary content to make a conversation longer.
  • Perdersi in un bicchiere d’acqua: Panicking over minor difficulties.
  • Essere una spina nel fianco: To be annoying or troublesome.
  • Fare il passo più lungo della gamba: To overreach or bite off more than one can chew.
  • Non battere ciglio: To show no reaction or emotion.
  • Cercare un ago nel pagliaio: A difficult or nearly impossible task (looking for a needle in a haystack).
  • Avere il coltello dalla parte del manico: To have the upper hand.
  • Darsi la zappa sui piedi: To shoot oneself in the foot.

These expressions enrich Italian vocabulary and help connect better with native speakers at an advanced level. 2

If more idioms or a specific category is needed, I can continue providing them.

References

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