Author name: lingualungaitaliano

Italian is a charming language to learn. It is rich in melody and Italian culture. That said, mastering and speaking Italian language confidently requires time, dedication, and practice. This, paired with Italian language courses, will have you talking to native Italian speakers in no time.

Thankfully, the internet has made accessing Italian courses super easy, whether physical or online. However, if you are considering taking your Italian class online, choosing the best option for you may be overwhelming. Fortunately for you, I will show you how to choose the best online Italian course with ease.

If you are still unsure about online Italian classes, keep reading to see if this language-learning method is for you.

Benefits of Learning Italian Online

Learning Italian language comes with lots of benefits. These include:

• Allowing you to converse with locals on your trip to Italy.
• Appreciating Italian culture, art, fashion, and gastronomy.
• Making new friends.
• New career prospects.

Additionally, taking your Italian classes online comes with further benefits over the in-person learning method, such as flexible schedules, comfort, and lower costs.

How to Choose the Best Online Italian Course

Choosing the best Italian class can be challenging because of the influx of online Italian courses. On top of that, what may work for one learner may not work for you due to differences in learning speeds, what your day-to-day schedule looks like, and other factors.

So, what should you consider when choosing Italian online courses?

Your preferred learning method

Everyone learns differently, making this a huge factor when choosing the best online Italian class for you. For example, some people learn Italian faster by listening to native speakers, while others prefer reading Italian text. Ideally, your choice of Italian course should be tailored to meet your learning needs.

Learning flexibility

Whether you are learning Italian for travel or work, it is important that you dedicate adequate time to improve your language skills. However, this may be tough when you have a tight schedule—a full-time job, children, house chores, and other commitments—and nearly not enough time to work on your Italian grammar.

If this is you, a self-paced Italian course will work best for you than a scheduled one. It is easier to allocate time for language learning when your Italian lessons align with your schedule.

1:1 learning vs. group lessons

Online Italian courses vary in the mode of delivery, be it one on one learning or group lessons. Individual online classes allow you to learn and speak Italian at your own pace. 1:1 learning also allows for personalized attention to the student’s specific needs, strengths, and weaknesses. This can lead to more effective and efficient learning, greater retention of information, and a more enjoyable learning experience for language learners.

Customized language learning plans

The best Italian online courses will meet you where you are in your journey. For instance, intermediate and advanced learners can save valuable time by skipping beginner courses.

Similarly, if you are only interested in learning, say, Italian for travel, a customized learning plan will be structured to only focus on your specific needs. With a virtual instructor, you are getting a plan that was made for and adapts grammar lessons to to you specifically instead of a cookie-cutter course.

Learning support

Learning Italian is demanding, regardless of your native language. So, you need all the learning support you can get. This includes tools to help you keep up with your Italian lessons and practice, such as digital books, grammar worksheets, and homework feedback. Additional assistance from your Italian teacher also helps to keep you consistent and motivated during speaking practice.

Learn Italian Online with Lingua Lunga!

I’m Alice, founder of Lingua Lunga Italian. This company started in 2022 after years of me teaching students like you Italian. I’ve had the opportunity to teach people to appreciate and learn this language in over 15 different countries.

No matter what age you are, if you have consistency, enthusiasm, and passion, you can learn the Italian language. Book a Free Call with me today to begin!

Italian language sounds beautiful, musical, and romantic. The language alone fully depicts the richness of Italian culture and art. So, if you’re planning a trip to Italy and want to learn Italian to interact with the locals or are fascinated by the language, you may be asking yourself this one question – Is Italian hard to learn?

Learning a new language comes with its own set of challenges. However, focusing on the wrong myths, such as learning Italian is hard, can leave you feeling stuck early in your lessons. Fortunately for you, I’m here to help you master the Italian language with ease.

So, read on to find out how fast you can learn and speak Italian!

How Long Can it Take You to Learn Italian?

How fast you learn the Italian language will depend on several factors. These include your attitude, dedication, resources at your disposal, and, most importantly, other languages you already speak. The latter will either accelerate your learning process or make it a little tricky at first, as you will see below.

Learning Italian is not as straightforward as you may think if you are a native English speaker or speak English well. The US Foreign Service Institute (FSI) ranks Italian as a Category I Language, meaning it is closely related to English as they both originate from Latin. Still, you will need a good Italian teacher if you want to learn Italian well and fast.

Speakers of other romance languages—French, Spanish, and Portuguese—may be surprised to find a few common words in Italian. The reason behind this is that romance languages share strong similarities in terms of spelling and pronunciation because they originate from Vulgar Latin.

Is Italian Vocabulary Hard to Learn?

Learning Italian vocabulary can be challenging for English speakers as English is a Germanic while Italian is a Romance language.

The good news is that while English is Germanic, it does have some Latin influence. At least 25% of English words are directly borrowed from Latin or indirectly from Italian or French. Thanks to this etymological relationship, you will find that some Italian words have English counterparts.

A few examples of common vocabulary in Italian and English are:

• Problema – Problem
• Necessità – Necessity
• Melodia – Melody
• Finale – Final
• Concerto – Concert
• Realtà – Reality

Spanish, Portuguese, and French speakers may also notice similarities in some basic words when learning Italian.

Consider the verb – to sing

• Italian – cantare
• Spanish – cantar
• Portuguese – cantar
• French – chanter

Is Italian Pronunciation Easy or Difficult?

When you learn Italian, you will need to focus on pronunciation. It can be difficult to pronounce the words if you’re not a native speaker. This is because Italian is a phonetic language, unlike other languages such as English and French.

Fortunately, once you get a grasp of it, pronouncing many Italian words becomes straightforward, as the rules do not change. In turn, this helps you pronounce even words you are unfamiliar with—a major benefit when learning a foreign language.

Some of the rules you will encounter at the very beginning include:

• c + a, o, u, he, hi   [k] cane (kah-neh) – dog
• c + ia, io, iu, e, i    [ch] cinema (chee-neh-mah) – cinema
• g + a, o, u, he, hi   [g] gatto (ga-toh)  – cat
• g + ia, io, iu, e, i    [dj] gelato (djeh-lah-toh) – ice cream

Before we look at Italian grammar, one of the challenges you may face when learning Italian pronunciation is the rolled “r” sound. Here’s why-

The rolled “R”

Italian is a beautiful melodic language. For this reason, language learners need to pronounce words and speak in a certain way to sound like native Italian speakers.

One of the challenges native English speakers face when learning Italian is the rolled R. This sound, also common in other European languages, is made by vibrating your tongue on the roof of your mouth. The good news is you can learn how to roll your “r” with some practice and patience.

Is Italian Grammar Hard?

The rules for Italian grammar are very specific and have few exceptions. With both regular and irregular verbs, you will notice that most Italian verbs end with -are, -ere, and -ire. The good news, however, is that you can learn to identify and conjugate regular verbs with practice. As for the irregular ones, you will make them out, with time, by heart.

So, Is Italian Hard to Learn?

Put simply, just like any new language, Italian can be challenging to master. But with the right Italian teacher and methods, your dreams of being fluent in this language are very achievable, and in today’s world you can do it through modern methods like online Italian courses or Italian audiobooks at your own pace. This means you can learn Italian anytime and practice Italian anywhere!

Want to learn more Italian? Contact Lingua Lunga!

I’m Alice, founder of Lingua Lunga Italian. This company started in 2022 after years of me teaching students like you Italian. I’ve had the opportunity to teach people to appreciate and learn this language in over 15 different countries.

No matter what age you are, if you have consistency, enthusiasm, and passion, you can learn the Italian language. Book a Free Call with me today to begin!

The Italian language is full of idiomatic expressions that can be difficult to understand for non-native speakers. These Italian idioms add color, humor, and depth to the language, and they are an important part of Italian culture and communication. Some of them are translations of their English equivalent while some of uniquely Italian in origin.

So what is an idiomatic expression? An idiomatic expression is a phrase that can mean a different thing rather than the literal meaning of it. You might have come across one during your day and not notice it. A great example of this is “feeling under the weather”.

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner of Italian, this blog will help you learn italian idioms to improve your understanding of the language and appreciate the nuances of Italian culture. You’ll be surprised as well how English idiom have their Italian version. So many Italian idioms are used in casual conversations that this is a great way to flex your linguistic muscles. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of the most popular Italian idioms together.

Non Piangere Sul Latte Versato (Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk)

Let’s start with something we’ve all heard before. This Italian idiom “non piangere sul latte versato” has the very popular English equivalent “Don’t cry over spilled milk”. This is used to explain that it is useless to despair and complain after making mistakes that cannot be undone and fixed. 

What do you say to yourself if you accidentally fail an exam? You pick yourself up and say “Potevi studiare di più! Ora non piangere sul latte versato!” which means “You could have studied more! Don’t cry over spilled milk now!”

Ti Sta A Pennello (It Suits You Very Well)

Everyone loves a compliment and this can be the perfect way to break the ice (rompere il ghiaccio) when meeting someone new. This Italian idiom means that the object is befitting to the subject. You can use this for a lot of things, but this is most applicable when it comes to clothing in general. With Italian fashion being so mainstream, this Italian idiom has great meaning conversationally as well as culturally.

What do you say when your best friend got herself a new skirt for the event? You say Oh, quella gonna ti sta a pennello!” which means translates “Oh, that skirt really suits you!”

Piangere come una fontana (To cry a river)

This is different than the english equivalent which typically is used in a joking context when you tell someone to “cry me a river” in response to an overreaction. The beauty of the speaking Italian is that the italian expressions can encompass a multitude of emotions and meanings. Translated literally, the idiomatic expression “Piangere come una fontana” means “to cry a river”. But we don’t read italian idiomatic expressions like that. Native speakers read the italian expression in the context of the sentence, which means the Italian idiom means to cry extensively.

For example, if your friend Matteo lost his cat, you say “dopo la morte del suo gattino, Matteo ha pianto come una fontana”. The English equivalent of this would be “After the death of his kitten, Matteo cried a river”.

Prendere Il Toro Per Le Corna (Take The Bull By The Horns)

When you want to go all out in a situation, this is the best way to describe what you are about to do! It indicates the intention to tackle a problem head-on aiming at solving it as quickly as possible without getting around it.

If your friend doesn’t want to face their problems, you need to give them the push they need. You say “Non puoi andare avanti così, devi risolvere la situazione! Prendi il toro per le corna!” which means “ You can’t go on like this, you must solve the issue! Take the bull by the horns!” This is just like the english idiomatic expression.

Non Stare Nella Pelle (Can’t Wait!)

Are you feeling excited about a situation or an event you are going to? It is a widely used Italian expression to refer to something pleasurable that is being waited with great joy. Perfect when you want to show someone that you’re really excited about the subject! The Italian version is the exact same as the English equivalent, which makes it easier for new speakers to use.

Let’s say someone invited you for a concert? You say “ Non sto più nella pelle per il concerto di domenica!” which means “I can’t wait for the concert on Sunday!”. This Italian idiom is good as it can be used for a lot of casual conversation.

Avere la lingua lunga (Talk too much)

When you get excited about learning a new language, you just can’t wait to try every new word. This Italian idiom has the exact same meaning as its English equivalent: you’re talking too much. This isn’t a bad thing since you just want to learn how to speak like those native speakers. Knowing a language is about diving right into the culture and the words. To do that, you need to learn how to get over this fear of being too much!

For example, someone might say ” Maria ha la lingua lunga, parla troppo!”, which means “Maria talks too much!”. When faced with that, you can use the italian idiom “Avere la testa sulle spalle“. This Italian idiom means “to have a good head on one’s shoulder.“

Unique Italian idioms

Since we just talked about Italian idioms with English equivalents, lets talk about the ones that are uniquely Italian. Since idiomatic expressions are often based in the Italian culture and Italian sayings, we might not have clear connections when you translated literally. For those Italian idioms, it might be best to ask native speakers of the cultural background they might have.

Fa il monaco

The Italian idiom “L’abito non fa il monaco” literally translates to “the clothes don’t make the monk” and it means that no matter how well you dress, your value and personality will not change. It is roughly equivalent to the English idiom “you can’t judge a book by its cover.” This idiom is used to express that one should not judge someone outward appearance, as it does not reflect their true character or worth.

In Bocca al lupo

The Italian idiom “bocca al lupo” literally translates to “mouth to the wolf” in English. It is used as a way of wishing someone good luck or wishing them success in a particular endeavor. The appropriate response to this phrase is “crepi il lupo”, which means “may the wolf die”. This exchange of phrases is a common superstition in Italy, especially in theatrical circles.

Tutto fa brodo

The Italian idiom “tutto fa brodo” literally translates to “everything makes broth” in English. This expression means that every little bit helps or that everything contributes to the final result, even if it may not seem significant on its own.

In other words, “tutto fa brodo” suggests that even small contributions or efforts can help to achieve a larger goal or solve a problem. This expression is often used to encourage someone who may be feeling discouraged or overwhelmed, by emphasizing that even small actions can make a difference.

Ogni morte di papa

This Idiom translates to “every death of a pope” in English. This expression is used to describe something that happens very rarely or very infrequently, implying that the event is so rare that it might only happen once in a generation or even once in a lifetime.

For example, if someone says, “I see my childhood friend every ogni morte di papa,” they mean that they see their friend very rarely or only on very special occasions that occur infrequently.

Ready to Impress?

Now that you know all these Italian idioms and what they mean, you’ll be able to pepper them in casual conversations with your friends. Not only will you impress them with your knowledge of the language, but you are also able to get to know the culture!

What to learn more Italian? Contact Lingua Lunga!

I’m Alice, founder of Lingua Lunga Italian. This company started in 2022 after years of me teaching students like you Italian. I’ve had the opportunity to teach people to appreciate and learn this language in over 15 different countries. 

No matter what age you are, if you have consistency, enthusiasm, and passion, you can learn the Italian language. Book a Free Call with me today to begin!

The Venice Carnival is a world-famous festival that takes place annually in the city of Venice, Italy. The festival dates back to the 11th century and is a celebration of art, music, and food, among other things. The Venice Carnival is an important part of Venetian culture. This celebration is a time for revelry, costumes, masks, music, and food, and it attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world every year.

When is the 2024 Venice Carnival?

The Venice Carnival takes place during the weeks leading up to Lent and is a time of revelry and celebration. The 2023 Venice Carnival takes place from January 28th to February 13th, 2024. 

Origin

The origins of the Venice Carnival can be traced back to the 11th century when the city was still a powerful republic. During this time, Venetians would take to the streets to celebrate spring’s arrival and pay tribute to the city’s patron saint, Saint Mark. Over time, the festival evolved into a more elaborate and elaborate event, and by the 18th century, the Venice Carnival had become one of the most celebrated events in Europe.

What happens at the Venice Carnival?

Participants dress in elaborate costumes, masks, and accessories and roam Venice streets, participating in parades, musical performances, and other festivities. 

Masks and costumes

One of the defining features of the Venice Carnival is the use of masks and costumes. Participants in the carnival are encouraged to wear masks and costumes inspired by the Renaissance styles. The event has become known for its stunning and intricate masks, many of which are made by local artisans. Masks are an important part of the Venice Carnival because they allow participants to express their individuality and creativity while also keeping their identities hidden from others. This anonymity allows for a freer and more uninhibited celebration, as participants can dance, sing, and revel without fear of being judged.

Venice carnival food

Another important aspect of the Venice Carnival is the food. There are many food stands that sell traditional carnival treats, such as frittelle which are small fried doughnuts, and galani, which are sweet fried pastries filled with cream or other sweet fillings.

The flight of the angel

The Venice Carnival is also famous for its grand processions and parades, which take place throughout the city during the festival. One of the most famous parades is the Flight of the Angel, which takes place on the second Sunday of Carnival. This procession features a beautiful angel who descends from the bell tower of Saint Mark’s Basilica and flies over the heads of the crowds below. The procession is accompanied by music and singing, and it is a stunning and unforgettable experience for those who are lucky enough to witness it. The angel, who symbolizes peace and hope, soars above the city, blessing the crowds below with flower petals as they sing and dance in the streets. Whether you’re a lover of art, history, or just looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, the flight of the angel at the Venice Carnival is a must-see event.

Gondola races

The gondola races at the Venice Carnival are a unique and thrilling event that have been a tradition for centuries. During the carnival season, gondoliers from all over the city gather to compete in a series of races, showcasing their skill and strength as they navigate the canals of Venice. The races are fast-paced and competitive, as the gondoliers battle it out to become the champion of the carnival. Spectators line the canals, cheering on their favorite gondoliers and taking in the city’s stunning scenery. The gondola races are not only a test of strength and skill, but also a celebration of Venice’s rich history and cultural heritage.

A Lasting Impression

The Venice Carnival is a magnificent event celebrating the city’s rich history and culture. With its beautiful masks, delicious food, and lively music and dancing, the carnival is a celebration of life and joy, and it draws visitors from around the world to the city of Venice each year. Whether you are looking to experience the thrill of a grand procession, the beauty of an elaborate costume, or the taste of delicious Venetian cuisine, the Venice Carnival is an event that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

MISTERO A CARNEVALE

My short story MISTERO A CARNEVALE is set in fascinating Venice at Carnival time. 

After working side by side with students, I have become aware of their difficulties and weak points, commonly listening and speaking. That is why short stories are so valuable a method to boost your fluency and understanding.

MISTERO A CARNEVALE will be available on Amazon, Apple Books, and Barker & Jules next week. Meanwhile, here is a preview so you can enjoy chapter one while listening to me narrating the chapter. You have two speeds available: normal or slow-speed narration: Chapter 1 Audiobook.

January 6th is a national holiday in Italy as it is the day of the Epiphany. This day marks the end of the holiday season and it is the time when Christmas Trees come down and families add the figurines of the Three Kings (i Re Magi or Magi) to the nativity scene. As a matter of fact, the Epiphany recalls the arrival of the Three Kings to baby Jesus.
It’s a fun day to be in Italy especially if you’re a child (but also an adult LOL) as a magical character called “la Befana”, a good witch who travels the world dressed in rags on a magical broom, visits Italian children bringing sweets to well-behaved kids and sweet coal to naughty ones, leaving them in a long stocking near the chimney in the night between the 5th and 6th of January.

Most sources say that the myth of La Befana goes back to the 13th century. According to one of the legends the Three Kings stopped along their long journey to visit Jesus and they knocked at the door of an old woman to ask for directions to Bethlehem and to rest. They asked her if she would like to accompany them, but she refused, saying she had too much housework to do. She was known to be the best housekeeper in town. The Three Kings departed but La Befana changed her mind and decided she wanted to go along and see the baby king. She gathered together some sweets as a gift and ran out after the Three Kings. Sadly, she never found the Magic or the baby Jesus. To this day, she continues her search broom in hand, handkerchief on her head, filling stockings with sweets and toys.
This is a typical Italian song that children sing while waiting for la Befana:
La Befana vien di notte
con le scarpe tutte rotte
col cappello alla romana
viva viva La Befana.
It says that la Befana comes at night wearing broken shoes, and a Roman-style hat, W la Befana.
If you happen to be in Italy on this day, you will see many different stockings in sweet shops, supermarkets, and delis. This is mine for this year!

An Italian tradition or should we give the Unites States credit for that?

At Christmas, I always love to hear how my clients will spend their Christmas Eve (la Vigilia di Natale) and Christmas day (il giorno di Natale). I have many Italian American students who often talk to me about the feast of the Seven fishes on the night of Christmas Eve. But is this really an Italian tradition or should we give the Unites States credit for that?

Typically, Italian Americans gather for a huge dinner on December 24th preparing a seven-course seafood meal celebrating their connection to Italy. The origin of this tradition can be traced back to southern Italy although the origin is still uncertain. Once arrived in the United States, Italian immigrants, who were homesick for the land they left behind, prepared seafood meals to make them feel closer to their homes.

There are a few different theories on why there are seven fishes: maybe the seven days for God to create the Earth, the seven sacraments of the Roman Catholic church, and so on, whereas fish comes from the Roman Catholic practice of not eating dairy or meat on the eve of some holidays.

Despite its popularity among Americans, many Italians do not even know about the tradition. Surprised? The answer can be found in the biodiversity of Italy: the country boasts so many differences between the North and South. I come from the North so in my family Lasagna is the typical dish together with cotechino (Italian pork dish) and lentils but Tortellini in broth is also another traditional course… and Panettone or Pandoro of course!!

And you? What are you going to eat on Christmas Eve and Christmas day?

Enjoy and Merry Christmas!!

Alice

Dear all,

It’s with immense pleasure that I introduce you to Lingua Lunga, my online Italian school. Lingua Lunga is not only the name of my school but it’s also an idiom that means “chatterbox” and this is my goal with you!

Lingua Lunga was born after many months of hard work and conscious reflection about methodologies and weaknesses that are common when learning a language. I still am a student myself as I’m currently set on a challenge to learn my fourth language and I know what this means for all of you. But mostly, there’s a lot of love, passion and dedication behind Lingua Lunga as I care very much about each one of you.

My hope is to embrace more students all over the world and help them become a Lingua Lingua.

A big thank you to you all for helping me grow as a teacher and for being my number one inspiration.

I wish you and your families Merry Christmas and a good, healthy year ahead.

Alice