20 Expressions Travelers Have to Know to Sound Like Locals in Italy

Italy is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the world, known for its history, art, food, and stunning landscapes. However, to fully enjoy the experience, it’s helpful to know some Italian phrases and expressions. With this knowledge, you'll better blend in with locals and have a more authentic experience. Below are 20 Italian expressions that will help you sound like a true local.

1. Che figata! – How cool! (Pronunciation: keh fee-GAH-tah)

A super Italian expression to say that something is awesome, impressive, or incredible. It's especially used by young people to express excitement or admiration.

Example:
Person: I got tickets for the concert!
Friend: Che figata!

2. In bocca al lupo – Good luck! (Pronunciation: een BOK-kah al LOO-poh)

Literally, it means "into the mouth of the wolf," but it’s the Italian way to wish someone good luck. The appropriate response is "crepi il lupo" (may the wolf die).

Example:
Person: I have an exam tomorrow.
Friend: In bocca al lupo!
Person: Crepi il lupo!

3. Mamma mia! – Oh my God! (Pronunciation: MAH-mah MEE-ah)

This is an exclamation used to express astonishment, surprise, or even frustration. It’s very versatile and authentically Italian.

Example:
Person: Did you see the traffic?
Friend: Mamma mia, it’s a disaster!

4. Non ci piove – No doubt (Pronunciation: nohn chee PYO-veh)

Literally, it means “it’s not raining on this,” but it’s used to affirm something unquestionable, like “no doubt about it.”

Example:
Person: This movie is really great.
Friend: Non ci piove!

5. Magari! – I wish! (Pronunciation: mah-GAH-ree)

It’s used to express a strong wish for something to happen, similar to "I wish" in English, but it can also mean “maybe” or “perhaps.”

Example:
Person: I was thinking about moving to Italy.
Friend: Magari, that would be fantastic!

6. Avere un chiodo fisso – To be obsessed (Pronunciation: ah-VEH-reh oon KYOH-doh FEE-soh)

If someone has “a nail stuck in their head,” they are obsessed with something. It’s a colloquial way to say that an idea is constantly on your mind.

Example:
Person: You keep talking about that trip to Rome!
Friend: Yeah, I have a chiodo fisso!

7. Dai! – Come on! (Pronunciation: die)

An expression used to encourage someone or even to express surprise. It’s used a lot in informal conversations among friends.

Example:
Person: I don’t want to go out tonight.
Friend: Dai, it’ll be fun!

8. Fare una figuraccia – To embarrass yourself (Pronunciation: FAH-reh OO-nah fee-goo-RAH-chah)

This expression refers to making a fool of yourself or being embarrassed in public. Very useful in social situations.

Example:
Person: I said the wrong name of my boss in front of everyone.
Friend: What a figuraccia!

9. Andare a gonfie vele – To be going great (Pronunciation: ahn-DAH-reh ah GON-fee-eh VEH-leh)

It’s used to say that something is going very well, like a business or a project. Literally, it refers to a boat sailing with a strong, favorable wind.

Example:
Person: How’s your new company going?
Friend: It’s going a gonfie vele!

10. Acqua in bocca! – Keep it a secret! (Pronunciation: AH-kwah een BOK-kah)

This phrase literally means “water in the mouth,” and it’s used to tell someone to keep a secret and not spill it.

Example:
Person: I told you something important. Acqua in bocca, okay?
Friend: I won’t say anything, I promise!