These contain some examples of vulgar language.

DownloadDownload mp3 (file size 500 KB) - right click and choose 'save target as'
PrintGet a print version of this page

Italians are not exactly famous for music unless you're talking opera. But they do love it. You can dance everywhere and anywhere from trendy discoteche to old fashion balere for the older (and wiser) generations.

Good music
Bad music

(* = familiar, ** = very familiar, *** = vulgar, R = plain rude, Lit. = Literally)


Good music

Tosta (*) Cool.

Che musica figa (*) Cool music.

Che figata (*) How cool.

back to the top

Bad music

Sfascia orecchie (*) Ear-bashing music, definitely not good.

Fa venire il latte alle ginocchia (*) Lit. Makes milk go to your knees.

Da suicidio (*) So depressing you want to kill yourself.

È mielosa (*) It's honey-like, too sweet, too sickening.

Sembra un gatto strangolato (*) Sounds like a strangled cat.

È una palla (*) Boring.

back to the top


ArgumentClassDrinkingFamily
FoodFriendsGoing outHealth
InterjectionsMoneyMoodsMusic
Play up/Play downPoliticsProfessionsPulling

More Italian from BBC Languages
More from BBC Languages

BBC © 2014The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read more.

This page is best viewed in an up-to-date web browser with style sheets (CSS) enabled. While you will be able to view the content of this page in your current browser, you will not be able to get the full visual experience. Please consider upgrading your browser software or enabling style sheets (CSS) if you are able to do so.