Discover 30 Fascinating Italian Sayings to Use in Life

Life is full of little moments that words can make richer, funnier, or more meaningful. Italian culture is known for its flair, and one way it shines is through its colorful expressions. These Italian sayings carry wisdom, humor, and charm that resonate far beyond their origins.

Whether you’re sharing laughs with friends, navigating daily challenges, or looking for inspiration, these timeless phrases can offer something special. Let’s dive into these gems of the Italian language and uncover the wit and warmth they bring to life’s conversations.

30 Fascinating Italian Sayings

1. Dolce far niente

This saying, meaning “the sweetness of doing nothing,” celebrates the Italian art of relaxation and savoring life’s small moments. It’s not about laziness but rather about taking time to pause and enjoy the present.

Whether it’s sitting on a terrace with a coffee, enjoying the breeze, or simply letting your mind wander, dolce far niente is a reminder to appreciate life’s unhurried joys. In a world often consumed by busyness, this phrase invites us to slow down and find beauty in the quiet simplicity of just being.

2. Chi dorme non piglia pesci

The literal meaning is “who sleeps doesn’t catch fish,” and it conveys the idea that success requires effort and vigilance. Italians use this saying to encourage action and discourage procrastination. It’s akin to the English saying, “the early bird catches the worm.”

Whether it’s about starting your day early, taking initiative, or staying alert to opportunities, this proverb reminds us that rewards come to those who don’t let chances slip away by being idle or unprepared.

3. L’amore è cieco

Translating to “love is blind,” this timeless saying reflects how love can obscure judgment. When people are in love, they often overlook flaws or see their partner through rose-colored glasses.

Italians use this phrase to explain the sometimes irrational choices lovers make, driven by emotions rather than logic. It’s a bittersweet acknowledgment of how love can be both a beautiful and challenging force, capable of making us blind to reality while still enriching our lives.

4. Chi trova un amico trova un tesoro

The literal translation is “who finds a friend finds a treasure,” and this saying highlights the immense value of true friendship. Italians deeply value relationships, and this proverb emphasizes that a genuine friend is as rare and precious as treasure.

True friends bring joy, support, and loyalty, standing by you through life’s ups and downs. This phrase encourages cherishing those connections and reminds us that real friendship is one of life’s greatest blessings, worth more than material riches.

5. A caval donato non si guarda in bocca

This translates to “don’t look a gift horse in the mouth,” and it originates from the practice of checking a horse’s teeth to assess its age and value. The saying advises us to accept gifts graciously, without questioning their worth or quality.

Italians use this proverb to stress the importance of gratitude and focusing on the gesture rather than the material value. It’s a timeless lesson in appreciating kindness and understanding that the thought behind a gift matters more than its price tag.

6. Meglio soli che male accompagnati

This saying, meaning “better alone than in bad company,” is a wise reminder about the importance of choosing the right people to surround yourself with. Italians use it to emphasize that being by yourself is preferable to being with people who bring negativity or drama into your life.

It speaks to the value of self-respect and encourages setting boundaries. After all, spending time alone can be empowering and peaceful, while toxic relationships often drain energy and happiness.

7. Il lupo perde il pelo ma non il vizio

The literal meaning is “the wolf loses its fur but not its vices.” This saying reflects the belief that people don’t easily change their nature, habits, or flaws, even if outward appearances shift. Italians use this proverb to comment on human behavior, often in a humorous or resigned way.

It serves as a reminder to be cautious when expecting others to truly change their ways, as deep-seated tendencies and traits often remain the same despite external transformations.

8. Non tutte le ciambelle riescono col buco

Translating to “not all doughnuts come out with a hole,” this saying is a charming way of expressing that life doesn’t always go as planned. Italians use it to remind themselves and others that imperfections and setbacks are a natural part of life.

Whether it’s a failed project, a recipe gone wrong, or an unexpected detour in your plans, this phrase encourages patience and a sense of humor. It’s a way of saying, “Not everything will be perfect, and that’s okay.”

9. Tra il dire e il fare c’è di mezzo il mare

The literal meaning is “between saying and doing, there is the sea,” a poetic way of highlighting the gap between words and actions. Italians use this saying to remind people that making promises or talking about plans is easy, but following through requires effort, determination, and courage. It’s a cautionary phrase, urging action over empty words and recognizing the challenges that often lie between intentions and reality.

10. Chi va piano, va sano e va lontano

This translates to “who goes slowly, goes safely and far,” a proverb that celebrates the virtue of patience and steady progress. Italians use this phrase to emphasize the importance of pacing yourself, whether in work, relationships, or life in general.

It’s a reminder that rushing can lead to mistakes or burnout, while taking your time ensures stability and long-term success. This saying encourages a balanced approach to life, favoring consistency and care over haste.

11. Tutte le strade portano a Roma

The literal translation is “all roads lead to Rome,” and it reflects the idea that there are many ways to reach the same goal. This saying dates back to the Roman Empire, when the road network was designed to center on Rome.

Italians use this proverb to express flexibility and perseverance—there’s more than one path to success, and even if plans change, you can still arrive where you need to be. It’s a motivational phrase, inspiring people to stay adaptable and resourceful.

12. Acqua passata non macina più

This saying means “past water doesn’t mill anymore,” symbolizing that dwelling on the past is unproductive. Italians use it as a way of encouraging others to let go of old mistakes, grievances, or regrets. Much like “let bygones be bygones,” this proverb reminds us to focus on the present and the future. It’s particularly effective in calming heated situations, promoting forgiveness, or offering comfort after a setback by emphasizing that the past cannot be changed.

13. Non si può avere la botte piena e la moglie ubriaca

The literal meaning is “you can’t have the barrel full and the wife drunk,” a humorous way of saying that you can’t have it all. Italians use this phrase to highlight the need to make choices and accept compromises. It’s a playful but practical reminder that life often requires trade-offs, whether in relationships, work, or personal pursuits. By acknowledging limitations, this saying encourages people to focus on what truly matters rather than striving for unattainable perfection.

14. Il buongiorno si vede dal mattino

This proverb, meaning “the good day is seen from the morning,” suggests that how you start something often determines how it will go. Italians use it to emphasize the importance of beginnings, whether it’s the start of a day, a project, or a relationship. A positive start can set the tone for success, while a chaotic or careless one might lead to problems later. It’s both a motivational saying and a gentle warning to begin with care and intention.

15. Ride bene chi ride ultimo

This translates to “he who laughs last, laughs best,” a saying that celebrates patience and perseverance. Italians use this phrase to convey that the true victory belongs to those who endure and come out on top in the end. It’s often said as a reassurance to people facing setbacks, reminding them that success might take time but is worth the wait.

The saying can also carry a humorous or slightly cheeky tone, especially when someone has underestimated another’s potential to succeed.

16. Chi non risica, non rosica

This saying translates to “nothing ventured, nothing gained,” and it’s all about taking risks to achieve rewards. Italians use it to encourage boldness, whether it’s pursuing a dream, starting a relationship, or taking on a challenge. It’s a reminder that playing it safe may lead to comfort but rarely to great success.

This phrase inspires courage, urging you to step out of your comfort zone and embrace the possibilities that come with taking chances—even if it means facing some uncertainty.

17. L’erba del vicino è sempre più verde

The literal meaning is “the grass is always greener on the neighbor’s lawn,” and this saying reflects the human tendency to envy what others have. Italians use it to caution against comparing your life to others, as appearances can be deceiving. It’s a reminder to focus on your own blessings and efforts rather than idealizing someone else’s situation.

This saying encourages contentment and self-reflection, gently pointing out that chasing what others have may distract from appreciating what’s truly yours.

18. Rosso di sera, bel tempo si spera

This phrase, meaning “red sky at night, good weather is in sight,” combines practical wisdom with a poetic touch. Italians often use it to express hope and optimism, linking the beauty of nature to life’s brighter moments. It’s rooted in traditional weather forecasting, but its deeper meaning is about looking for signs of positivity and holding onto hope. The phrase can be a comforting reminder that after difficulties or storms, calmer and better days are often on the horizon.

19. Non si vive di solo pane

The literal meaning is “one does not live by bread alone,” and it speaks to the importance of enriching your life with more than just material or physical necessities. Italians use this saying to emphasize the value of art, love, laughter, and community—the things that nourish the soul. It’s often shared in conversations about finding balance, pursuing passions, or prioritizing meaningful relationships over mere survival. This phrase reminds us that life’s true joys go far beyond the basics.

20. La gatta frettolosa ha fatto i gattini ciechi

This colorful saying translates to “the hasty cat gave birth to blind kittens,” and it warns against rushing through tasks. Italians use it to stress the importance of patience and careful planning, especially in situations where speed might lead to mistakes or poor outcomes.

It’s often used humorously, especially when someone’s hurried effort ends in a less-than-ideal result. This proverb encourages slowing down and taking the time to do things right, reminding us that haste often compromises quality.

21. Chi troppo vuole, nulla stringe

This saying translates to “who wants too much gets nothing” and serves as a caution against greed and overambition. Italians use it to remind others that aiming for too much at once often leads to losing focus and achieving nothing. It’s a lesson in moderation and prioritization—success comes from setting realistic goals and working toward them step by step. This saying is also a gentle nudge to appreciate what you have instead of constantly striving for more and risking it all.

22. Quando il gatto non c’è, i topi ballano

The literal meaning is “when the cat’s away, the mice will dance.” Italians use this to humorously describe situations where people take advantage of a lack of supervision or authority. It’s often said in workplaces, schools, or even family settings, where the absence of a leader or strict figure leads to unexpected freedom or mischief. This phrase can be both a playful observation of human nature and a lighthearted warning about the consequences of letting one’s guard down.

23. O mangi questa minestra o salti dalla finestra

This translates to “either eat this soup or jump out the window,” a vividly dramatic way of saying, “take it or leave it.” Italians use this saying to emphasize that sometimes there are no alternatives, and you have to accept what’s offered. It’s often used in a playful or exasperated tone, particularly with children or picky eaters, but it can also apply to more serious situations. The humor and exaggerated imagery make it a memorable expression of limited choices.

24. Acqua in bocca

The literal translation is “water in the mouth,” and it’s a concise way of saying, “keep it a secret.” Italians use this idiom to stress the importance of discretion, urging someone not to share sensitive or private information. It’s often accompanied by a gesture of pressing fingers to the lips, further emphasizing silence. The phrase’s simplicity makes it a practical tool in everyday conversations when someone needs to ensure confidentiality in a lighthearted yet firm way.

25. Essere come il prezzemolo

This translates to “to be like parsley,” referring to someone or something that seems to be everywhere. Italians use this saying to describe people who are always present or involved in everything, often in a humorous or slightly teasing tone.

Parsley is a common ingredient in Italian cuisine, used in a wide variety of dishes, making it an apt metaphor for someone who’s ubiquitous. Depending on the context, it can be a playful compliment or a mild critique of over-involvement.

26. Fare una frittata

This saying literally means “to make an omelet,” but Italians use it to describe a situation where someone has made a mess or complicated things unnecessarily. It’s often said when a mistake or blunder creates chaos, especially when it could have been avoided with a little care.

However, much like the English equivalent, “to break eggs to make an omelet,” it can also carry a silver lining—sometimes mistakes lead to new solutions or opportunities. The phrase often adds humor to moments of frustration.

27. Non avere peli sulla lingua

This translates to “not to have hairs on your tongue,” and it describes someone who speaks their mind bluntly. Italians use this saying to characterize a person who is refreshingly honest—or, depending on the situation, perhaps a little too direct.

While this trait can be admired for its authenticity, it can also lead to misunderstandings or conflict. The phrase serves as both a compliment and a cautionary tale, depending on how the honesty is delivered and received.

28. Piove sul bagnato

The literal translation is “it rains on the wet,” a poetic way of saying that life often seems unfair, as those who already have advantages get even more, while those who struggle face additional challenges. Italians use this saying to comment on inequality or the way luck tends to favor the fortunate. It’s sometimes used with a resigned tone, acknowledging life’s injustices, but it can also be said playfully when someone experiences an unlikely streak of good fortune.

29. Essere al verde

This idiom means “to be in the green,” and it’s a colorful way of saying someone is broke or out of money. The origin of the phrase comes from an old Italian custom where, at the end of an auction, a green light was lit to signify that there were no more bids. Italians use this saying to describe financial struggles in a lighthearted way, often with a touch of self-deprecating humor. It’s a relatable phrase for anyone who’s ever had to tighten their belt.

30. Mettere il carro davanti ai buoi

This translates to “to put the cart before the oxen,” a vivid metaphor for doing things in the wrong order. Italians use this phrase to caution against impatience or poor planning. Whether it’s starting a project without preparation or making assumptions before gathering facts, this saying reminds people to approach tasks logically and methodically.

Its imagery resonates universally, serving as a humorous but wise warning to avoid unnecessary complications caused by rushing ahead thoughtlessly.