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Learn Italian with My Italian Lessons

Learn Italian with My Italian Lessons

Parlando Italiano
Education

If you want to learn Italian and are looking to receive Italian lessons with professional native Italian tutors, this podcast is the perfect solution for you.

16 - Italian clothing vocabulary you can easily learn with exercises
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  • 16 - Italian clothing vocabulary you can easily learn with exercises

    You want to be able to dress in Italian, then you have to learn Italian clothing vocabulary. Italy is known as one of the best fashion destinations in the world. Your shopping experience could be more fun if you took a step to learn the Italian language.

    Learn about the different Italian clothing brands, the famous Italian fashion designers like Giorgio Armani known for his luxury fashion empire that boasts of Apparel lines in conjunction with accessories, footwear, cosmetics and home-based décor.
    To be familiar with the Italian clothing vocabulary, you have to be willing to learn the Italian language. It will dawn on you that this is a wide topic and it includes a lot. Obviously, there are men’s and women’s clothes in Italian and we shall look at the two groups first.
    ABBIGLIAMENTO DA UOMO (MEN’S CLOTHING)

    Papillon (Bow tie)
    Camicia (Shirt)
    Giacca sportiva (Sport jacket)
    Abito da uomo (Suit)
    Gilet (Waistcoat)
    Cravatta (Tie)
    Smoking (Dinner suit, Tuxedo)
    Boxer (Boxer shorts)
    Canottiera (Undershirt)
    Mutande (Underwear)
    Maglietta (T-shirt)
    Giacca a vento (Windbreaker)
    Sciarpa (Scarf)
    Jeans (Jeans)
    Felpa (Sweatshirt)
    Tuta da ginnastica (Sweat suit)
    Maglione (Sweater)
    Impermeabile (Raincoat)

    ABBIGLIAMENTO DONNA (WOMEN’S CLOTHING)

    Bikini (Bikini)
    Camicia (Blouse)
    Vestito (Dress)
    Gonna (Skirt)
    Minigonna (Miniskirt)
    Completo da donna (Suit)
    Reggiseno (Bra)
    Camicia da notte (Nightgown)
    Mutandine (Panties)
    Collant (Pantyhose/tights)
    Sottoveste (Slip)
    Calze (Stockings)
    Pantaloncini (Shorts)
    Canotta (Tank top)
    Pantaloni di lino (Linen trouser)
    Tuta sportiva (Tracksuit)
    Abito lungo (Maxi dress)
    Accappatoio (Bathrobe)
    Biancheria intima (Lingerie)
    Canottiera di cotone (Cotton vest)

    ACCESSORI (ACCESSORIES)

    Cintura (Belt)
    Berretto (Cap)
    Guanti (Gloves)
    Cappello (Hat)
    Borsa (Purse)
    Calzini (Socks)
    Occhiali da sole (Sunglasses)
    Orologio (Watch)
    Cravatta (Tie)
    Bretelle (Suspenders)


    SCARPE (SHOES)

    Le scarpe alte/col tacco (High-heeled shoes)
    Le scarpe a tacco medio (Medium-heeled shoes)
    Le scarpe basse (Flats)
    Gli stivali (Boots)
    I sandali (Sandals)
    Le infradito (Flip-flops)
    Le scarpe da trekking (Hiking boots)
    Le scarpe da ginnastica (Tennis shoes)
    Le scarpe da corsa (Running shoes)
    Gli stivali di gomma (Rain boots)

    ITALIAN CLOTHING VOCABULARY, DESCRIBING MATERIALS 

    Il cotone (Cotton)
    La pelle (Leather)
    Pelle scamosciata (Suede)
    Pelle lucida (Patent leather)
    Pelle vegana (Vegan leather)
    La lana (Wool)
    Il lino (Linen)
    La seta (Silk)
    A maniche lunghe (Long-sleeved)
    A maniche corte (Short-sleeved)
    Elegante (Elegant)
    Attillato (Tight-fitting)
    Lungo (Long)
    Corto (Short)
    Scollato (Low-cut)
    Col collo a V (V-necked)
    Col collo rotondo (Round-necked)
    Casual (Casual)
    Un vestito importante (A serious/important dress)
    A strisce (Striped)

    It is interesting to note that Italy is known for high profile Italian fashion designers like Giorgio Armani, Gianni Versace but know very little about them. People know so much about what they have created but not about the designers. There are famous Italian clothing brands which are very well known. They are the likes of Bottega Veneta, Versace, Moschino, Gucci, Valentino, Fendi, Giorgio Armani, Prada, Miu Miu among others.
    Bottega Veneta is well known for specializing in premium leather goods and accessories. Versace is known for its expensive and glamorous pieces.
    Mon, 20 Dec 2021 - 4min
  • 15 - Best contemporary Italian writers

    Reading the best contemporary Italian writers is a good idea if you are learning Italian. This will connect you with the Italian culture and some exquisite writings which if you are a more advanced student will help you improve your Italian level.

    Some of the best contemporary Italian writers are listed below. Take a look at the list and get to know a bit about them.


    Niccolò Ammaniti

    He is an Italian writer born in 1966 who started out studying biology and then later discovered his passion for writing. He is responsible for some greatest literary successes that have also been adapted for the cinema, such as I’m Not Scared (Io non ho paura) and As God commands (Come Dio comanda).

    Alessandro Baricco

    After publishing his novel Silk (Seta) in 1996, Baricco has become one of the most well-read Italian writers. He was born in 1958 and still continues to enjoy success as a writer.

    Stefano Benni

    This writer was born in Bologna in 1947. His novels are a satirical observation of the Italian society. He also writes for the Italian media and newspapers such as Il manifesto, and works in other areas such as poetry readings and theater.

    Andrea Camilleri

    Born in Sicily in 1925, Camilleri is an Italian novelist and also a theatre and television director. His most famous works are the Montalbano series written in a mixture of Italian language and Sicilian dialect.

    Gianrico Carofiglio

    Carofiglio’s narrative work mainly focuses on the Italian murder mistery, which brought him great success and international recognition. Some of his most important novels are Involuntary Witness (Testimone inconsapevole) and A walk in the Dark (Ad occhi chiusi).

    Maurizio De Giovanni

    Born in Naples in 1958, De Giovanni became famous in his 50s when he wrote a winning work set in Naples about the investigator Ricciardi, which then became the main character of all his novels.

    Erri De Luca

    Born in Naples in 1950, De Luca originally worked as a truck driver and as a mason. To date, he has written more than fifty works, including Not now, not here (Non ora, non qui) and me, you (Tu, mio).

    Giorgio Faletti

    Faletti was born in 1950 and worked as a singer for a while, and also performed on television. His first book was titled I kill (Io Uccido), a suspense novel that was published in 2002 and sold millions of copies.

    Elena Ferrante

    Elena Ferrante is the pseudonym of an Italian writer of which little is known. She is famous for her Neapolitan Novels, a 4-part series which include the novels My Brilliant Friend (L’amica geniale), The Story of a New Name (Storia del nuovo cognome), Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay (Storia di chi fugge e di chi resta), and The Story of the Lost Child (Storia della bambina perduta).

    Margaret Mazzantini

    This Italian writer was born in 1961. Her writings include Don’t move (Non ti muovere) which was adapted for the cinema. The film was directed by her husband Sergio Castellitto.
    Once you get to know the work of these best contemporary Italian writers you will not stop until you have read them all. If you have any doubts about this topic or any other Italian language issue, please contact us as it is important for us to support your Italian learning process.

    Tue, 06 Dec 2016 - 5min
  • 14 - Cooking and Kitchen vocabulary in Italian with English translation

    It is important to learn cooking and kitchen vocabulary in Italian if you love the Italian way of life. Italians are known for their famous recipes which have had a great impact worldwide. They say that if you are not a fan of any of the delicious Italian food, then your life is missing something. Well-made, rich in taste and texture are guaranteed to leave you asking for more.

    There is a fascinating history, customs and trends for what you eat in Italian homes. As a result, food plays a big part in the everyday Italian lifestyle. It goes beyond nourishment. It is serious business thinking of which sauce is acceptable with a certain pasta and the details like what shape is to be used when considering to make a certain pasta. This is never taken lightly. Italians have a proud relationship with their cuisine and nothing or anyone can come in between them.
    ITALIAN COOKING TRADITIONS
    Italians have many traditional holidays which generally revolve around food. Large extended families’ groups come together to eat as often as possible during these days when particular foods must be eaten. The cooking and kitchen vocabulary in Italian is easily grasped since the meal preparation lasts for several hours. Whatever meal being prepared is so deep-rooted in the family that it’s unlikely to change anything. 
    Italians enjoy traditional food with family and dishes are tried and tested uncountable times before it qualifies to the dinner table. One of the most important things in Italy is cooking. It plays the important role of bringing family together. Therefore, a variety of delicious and enjoyable meals are prepared with family in mind. 
    A traditional Italian family lunch may last up to two good hours because it is made of six courses. Appetizers (gli antipasti), First course, mainly a pasta dish (Primo piato), the second course which is either fish or a meat dish, a vegetable dish (il contorno), fruit dish (frutta) and desserts (i dolci). 
    Let us look at some of the Italian cooking vocabulary.
    ITALIAN COOKING TECHNIQUES

    Mescolare – To blend, to mix, to stir
    Tritare – To chop up
    Impastare – To knead
    Versare – To pour
    Utilizzare – To use
    Scegliere – To choose
    Trasferire – To transfer
    Coprire – To cover
    Friggere – To fry
    Cuocere al forno – To bake in the oven
    Saltare – To sauté
    Trasferire in una seconda pentola -To transfer into a second pot


    ITALIAN COOKING INGREDIENTS

    Pomodori Pachino – Cherry tomatoes
    Cozze – Mussels
    Vongole – Clams
    Calamari – Squid
    Scampi – Shrimp
    Olio extraverergine di oliva – Extra-virgin olive oil
    Vino bianco – White wine
    Vino rosso – Red wine
    Sale – Salt
    Pepe nero – Black pepper
    Zucchero – Sugar
    Farina – Flour
    Acqua – Water
    Lievito – Yeast
    Mozzarella – Buffalo milk cheese
    Cacao amaro in polvere – Unsweetened chocolate powder
    Uova – Eggs

    MEASURING ITALIAN FOOD

    Grammi – Grams
    Spicchio – Slide, Wedge, Clove, Small bunch
    Cucchiaio – Spoonful

    ITALIAN KITCHEN VOCABULARY

    La cucina – Kitchen
    Le bacchette – Chopsticks
    Il coltello – Knife
    La forchetta – Fork
    Il cucchiaio – Spoon
    La spatula – spatula
    Le pinze – Tongs
    Il frullatore – Blender
    La bilancia – Scales
    Lo strofinaccio – Tea towel
    Il recipiente – Container
    Il tagliere – Cutting board
    Il bicchiere – Glass
    La lavastoviglie – Dishwasher
    Il congelatore – Freezer
    Sat, 06 Nov 2021 - 6min
  • 13 - Learn to read in Italian for beginners

    Ever tried to read in Italian? Well, this is a great chance for you to do so. Learning Italian through reading is a fun and charming way of studying and getting to know the language.  It is also an effective way to learn and strengthen the grasp and use of new vocabulary and grammar concepts.

    Reading helps get a firm hold on the Italian language. Learning Italian by Reading is effective since:

    You can take your time.
    Words that are written are memorable and easier to remember.
    Helps with writing/spelling.
    Reading helps with pronunciations.
    Helps you to think and reason in Italian.
    Learn more about Italian culture.

    Learning to read in Italian can be easy with the right resources. There are different ways of learning even as a beginner. Learning Italian for beginners can be very satisfying with all the right resources.

    TRANSLATED NOVELS
    Italian novels for beginners are a great way of getting to learn the Italian language. Translated novels are novels that have been translated from their original version and into the Italian version.  This is a fun and interesting way of learning since you have the opportunity to read the books you deem as favourite to you. You probably know what happens in the novel which makes it easier to grasp the Italian words and know what they mean without looking for a dictionary. A good example of a translated novel is “Il vecchio e il mare” (“The Old Man and the Sea”) by Ernest Hemingway.  It is the story of a Cuban fisherman and his young apprentice. The two were focused and planning on catching a huge and dangerous fish. The way this book is written makes it easy to read since it’s simple and to the point.  
    Check out here the 10 Italian books you must read!
    CHILDREN’S BOOKS
    Children’s books are written in a simple language that is easy to understand. They contain simple vocabulary and therefore make it easy to read in Italian. As a beginner choosing to read children’s books in Italian will give you a better grasp and understanding of the Italian language.  A great example is “Il grande libro delle fiabe” (“The Big Book of Fairy Tales”). The book contains all the fairy tales we knew as children. Reading the already known interesting tales can be fun and educative. 
    WEBSITES & YOUTUBE
    There are dozens of websites that allow beginners to learn the Italian language. Visiting these sites every time you access the internet will help you learn more. Some of the sites are My Italian lessons and its Youtube channel. These websites are a good way to learn Italian online since they provide images and videos against the words you are provided with.

    TEXTBOOKS
    There are textbooks that explain the basic information you need to learn the Italian language. Reading textbooks that contain these basics is essential in learning the difficulties found in grammar. Different textbooks have different styles which give one an opportunity to choose the style that suits you best. Eg: 

    “Living Language Ultimate Italian: Beginner-Intermediate”
    “Grammatica Italiana Per Stranieri” (Italian Grammar for Foreign Students). 

    PARALLEL TEXTS BOOKS
    These are books that have the Italian version and the English version translated side by side. It is an effective way to learn since you can refer back and forth on the words that you didn’t get by checking the Italian words across the English words. For example: 

    “Italian Short Stories 1” 
    “The Little Prince – Il Piccolo Principe: Bilingual Parallel Text”.

    E-BOOKS
    E-books are easy to find as long as you have access to the internet.
    Mon, 20 Sep 2021 - 8min
  • 12 - Italian passato prossimo. Learn the past tense in Italian

    In this post, we will show you how to use the Italian Passato Prossimo. As we already stated in our previous articles about grammar, many non-Italian speakers struggle with verbs because every single verb has to be conjugated for person and number. In addition, there are so many forms and pronunciations that it’s almost impossible not to get at least one verb wrong.

    Don’t feel embarrassed if you can’t remember a verb or say “faciuto” instead of “fatto” – done in English – so many Italian people still struggle with the passato prossimo and the participio passato. It’s normal to make mistakes! 
    Bear in mind that every language can be frustrating to learn and the best thing you can do is KEEP LEARNING! Find an entertaining way to learn and stick to it; grammar is not fun, but instead of using a textbook, try watching a video and taking notes. 
    To help you out we have provided you with a video made by our fantastic tutor Francesca, click the link down below to learn the Italian passato prossimo. Francesca will also test your skills at the end, so make sure you watch the entire video. 

    Keep reading to learn how to create the passato prossimo or past tense in Italian, commonly called present perfect as well. Get ready to learn Italian online! The passato prossimo Italian conjugation might be difficult, but you’re smarter!
    Learn Italian passato prossimo with us.
    LEARN THE PAST TENSE IN ITALIAN – HOW TO CREATE THE ITALIAN PASSATO PROSSIMO
    In Italian, the passato prossimo is used to express past events and actions that are already over. In English, you can choose between the present perfect tense (I have gone) and the simple past tense (I went), while in Italian we use the passato prossimo most of the time. The other past tense (passato remoto) is only used in narratives or when we talk about something that happened a long time ago. 
    The passato prossimo is composed of the auxiliary verb (to have or to be) and the past participle of the main verb.
    Present tense of AVERE or ESSERE + PAST PARTICIPLE of the main verb
    To form the past participle (participio passato), you need to follow these rules: 

    If a verb ends in -ARE in the infinitive tense, take off -ARE and add -ATO: giocare (to play) — giocato (played);
    If a verb ends in -ERE in the infinitive tense, take off -ERE and add -UTO: sapere (to know) — saputo (known)
    If a verb ends in -IRE in the infinitive tense, take off -IRE and add -ITO: sentire (to hear) — sentito (heard)

    IRREGULAR PAST PARTICIPLES
    In Italian, there are many irregular verbs that don’t follow the rules mentioned above to form the past participle. 
    Here is a list of the most used irregular verbs:

    * Accendere (to switch, light up) – Acceso
    * Aggiungere (to add) – Aggiunto
    * Ammettere (to admit) – Ammesso
    * Apparire (to appear) – Apparso
    * Apprendere (to learn) – Appreso
    * Aprire (to open) – Aperto
    * Assistere (to assist) – Assistito
    * Assolvere (to acquit) – Assolto
    * Assumere (to hire) – Assunto
    * Attendere (to wait for) – Atteso
    * Attrarre (to attract) – Attratto
    * Avvolgere (to wrap) – Avvolto
    * Bere (to drink) – Bevuto
    * Chiedere (to ask) – Chiesto
    * Chiudere (to close) – Chiuso
    * Commettere (to commit) – Commesso
    * Comparire (to appear) – Comparso
    * Comprendere (to comprehend, to understand) – Compreso
    * Condividere (to share) – Condiviso
    * Confondere (to confuse) – Confuso
    * Connettere (to connect) – Connesso
    * Conoscere (to know) – Conosciuto
    * Correggere (to correct) – Corretto
    * Correre (to run) – Corso
    * Crescere (to grow) – Cresciuto
    * Cuocere (to cook) – Cotto
    Sat, 20 Nov 2021 - 8min
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