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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 idiomatic expressions in Italian that are suitable for learners at the C1 level. These idioms are widely used in everyday conversations and can help you sound more natural and fluent.

  1. A mali estremi, estremi rimedi

    • Literal translation: To bad extremes, extreme remedies.
    • Meaning: Desperate times call for desperate measures.

  2. A quattro palmenti

    • Literal translation: To four millstones.
    • Meaning: Eating a lot or “stuffing one’s face.”

  3. Acqua in bocca!

    • Literal translation: Water in the mouth!
    • Meaning: Keep it a secret or “mum’s the word.”

  4. Cadere dalle nuvole

    • Literal translation: To fall from the clouds.
    • Meaning: To be completely surprised or caught off guard.

  5. Carta canta

    • Literal translation: Paper sings.
    • Meaning: Written proof is undeniable.

  6. Cavallo di battaglia

    • Literal translation: Battle horse.
    • Meaning: Someone’s strong suit or best work.

  7. Costa un occhio della testa

    • Literal translation: It costs an eye from the head.
    • Meaning: Something is extremely expensive, akin to “it costs an arm and a leg.”

  8. Da che pulpito viene la predica!

    • Literal translation: From which pulpit comes the sermon!
    • Meaning: Criticizing someone for hypocrisy, similar to “the pot calling the kettle black.”

  9. Dai tempo al tempo

    • Literal translation: Give time to time.
    • Meaning: Be patient; things will resolve in time.

  10. Due pesi e due misure

    • Literal translation: Two weights and two measures.
    • Meaning: A double standard.

  11. Saltare di palo in frasca

    • Literal translation: To jump from pole to branch.
    • Meaning: To change topics abruptly or be scatterbrained.

  12. Far ridere i polli

    • Literal translation: To make chickens laugh.
    • Meaning: To be utterly ridiculous or laughable.

Why Learn Idioms at C1 Level?

Idioms are essential at advanced levels because they:

  • Enhance fluency and cultural understanding.
  • Help express nuanced ideas.
  • Make conversations more engaging and natural.

Incorporating these idioms into your daily practice will enrich your Italian vocabulary and help you connect better with native speakers 1, 3, 13.

References

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