Italian Slang Words That'll Help You Avoid Sounding Like a Tourist

Before we dive into the list, let's talk about why Italian slang matters for travelers. You might be thinking, "Isn't it enough to know how to order food and ask for directions?" And sure, basic Italian will get you through most tourist situations. But Italian slang is what bridges the gap between being a visitor and being welcomed as someone who "gets it."

We've seen it happen countless times with our travelers on our small group or custom tours. Someone uses "Che figata!" (How cool!) when admiring a local artisan's work, and suddenly the conversation shifts. The artisan's face lights up, they start talking faster and more naturally, and what would have been a quick transaction becomes a genuine exchange. That's the power of speaking like Italians actually speak.

Italian slang also helps you understand what's happening around you. When you're sitting in a café and hear the locals chatting, they're not using the formal Italian from your textbook. They're using abbreviations, expressions, and slang that might as well be a different language if you only know "proper" Italian. Understanding these words doesn't just help you speak better— it helps you listen better, comprehend better, and ultimately experience Italy more authentically.

Plus, there's something undeniably fun about Italian slang. These words often have more personality, more emotion, more expressiveness than their formal equivalents. They're colorful, sometimes cheeky, often hilarious, and always more interesting than saying "Va bene" for the hundredth time.

But here's the important part: Italian slang should be used thoughtfully. You need to understand not just what these words mean, but when and how to use them. Context is everything. Some expressions are perfect for chatting with your tour guide but completely inappropriate for speaking with your elderly host's grandmother. Some are casual and fun; others could be mildly offensive if used incorrectly.

That's why we're not just giving you a list— we're giving you context, pronunciation guides, and insider tips on when these expressions work and when they don't. Consider this your guide to sounding less like a textbook and more like someone who actually hangs out with Italians.

Interested in learning more? Check out our Roadmap to Conversational Italian guide!

What's Italian Slang? What does it mean?

Italian slang (gergo italiano or linguaggio colloquiale) encompasses the informal words, expressions, and shortcuts that Italians use in everyday conversation. Just like English speakers say "gonna" instead of "going to" or "yeah" instead of "yes," Italians have their own casual vocabulary that deviates from what you'd learn in a formal language course.

But Italian slang is more than just informal language— it's a window into Italian culture, humor, and values. Many slang expressions reveal what matters to Italians: food (obviously), relationships, style, and the art of living well. Some expressions are rooted in regional dialects that have made their way into mainstream Italian. Others are borrowed from other languages, adapted to fit Italian phonetics, or completely made up by younger generations.

What makes Italian slang particularly interesting is how regional it can be. An expression commonly used in Rome might get blank stares in Milan, while Neapolitan slang is practically its own language. However, there are certain slang words and expressions that have become part of standard Italian conversation across the country, understood from the Alps to Sicily.

Italian slang also evolves quickly. Young people constantly create new expressions, often influenced by social media, music, and pop culture. Some expressions that were trendy ten years ago now sound dated, while others have stood the test of time and have been used by multiple generations.

Understanding Italian slang also means understanding that Italians are incredibly expressive people. Their language reflects this— slang words often add emotion, emphasis, or humor that more formal words lack. When an Italian says "Che schifo!" (How disgusting!), it's not just stating something is bad; it's expressing genuine revulsion with personality and flair.

It's also worth noting that Italian slang includes many hand gestures. Italians are famous for "talking with their hands," and many slang expressions are accompanied by specific gestures that add meaning or emphasis. Sometimes the gesture alone can communicate the entire message without any words at all!

When can you use Italian Slang Words?

This is the crucial question that separates travelers who use Italian slang successfully from those who create awkward moments. Italian culture values appropriateness— saying the right thing in the right context matters tremendously. Using slang incorrectly isn't just a language mistake; it's a cultural misstep.

Use Italian slang when:

You're with peers or young people. If you're chatting with your tour guide, someone your age at a bar, or young shop assistants, casual slang is perfectly appropriate and will help you connect. Italians under 40 generally use more slang in everyday conversation.

The situation is informal. Grabbing a coffee at the bar, shopping at a market, talking to your Airbnb host, or making friends at a wine bar— these are all situations where casual language is welcome and expected.

You're trying to show cultural understanding. When you use an Italian slang word correctly, it signals that you've made an effort to understand Italian culture beyond basic tourism. Most Italians appreciate this genuine interest.

You've established rapport. Once you've been chatting with someone for a bit and the conversation is flowing naturally, dropping in some appropriate slang can enhance the connection rather than seem forced or inappropriate.

You're with locals who are using slang themselves. If the Italians around you are speaking casually and using slang, it's generally safe for you to do so as well. Mirror their language level.

Don't use Italian slang when:

You're in formal situations. Business meetings, formal restaurants, speaking with officials, or any situation that calls for respect and formality requires proper Italian. Using slang here would be disrespectful.

You're speaking with elderly people you don't know well. While Italian grandmothers might love teaching you their regional expressions, starting a conversation with slang can be seen as disrespectful. Use formal language until they invite more casual conversation.

You're not sure what it means. Never use a slang word unless you're absolutely certain of its meaning and appropriate context. Some expressions that sound fun might actually be vulgar or offensive.

The slang is regional and you're not in that region. Using Neapolitan slang in Milan might just confuse people. Stick to widely-understood expressions unless you're sure it's appropriate.

You're trying too hard. If you're dropping slang words every other sentence, it sounds forced and unnatural. Italians use slang naturally within otherwise normal conversation. One or two well-placed expressions are better than overdoing it.

The golden rule: when in doubt, err on the side of being more formal. It's better to sound slightly too polite than too casual. And remember, making language mistakes is part of learning! Italians generally appreciate when visitors try to speak Italian at all, slang or no slang.

Italian Slang: (the list)

Now for what you've been waiting for— the actual Italian slang words that will help you sound like you actually know Italy! We've organized these from most useful to know, with pronunciation guides, meanings, and crucial context for when to use them.

Boh

Pronunciation: boh (like the English "bow" but with a shorter o sound)Meaning: I don't know / Who knows? / No idea

Context: This is probably the single most useful Italian slang word you can learn. Italians use "boh" constantly in casual conversation as a verbal shrug. Someone asks what you want for dinner? "Boh." Where should we go tonight? "Boh." What time is the bus coming? "Boh."

Example: "Cosa vuoi fare stasera?" "Boh, non lo so." (What do you want to do tonight? I don't know.)

It's casual, expressive, and perfectly captures that Italian sense of spontaneity. Use it with friends, peers, and in informal situations. Don't use it with your host's grandmother or in formal settings.

Figurati

Pronunciation: fee-goo-RAH-tee

Meaning: Don't mention it / No problem / You're welcome / Don't worry about it

Context: This is the casual, friendly way to respond when someone thanks you or apologizes. It's warmer and less formal than "prego" (the standard "you're welcome"). Italians use this constantly, and it immediately makes you sound more natural.

Example: "Grazie mille per l'aiuto!" "Figurati!" (Thanks so much for the help! Don't mention it!)

You can use this in almost any casual situation where someone thanks you. It shows warmth and that you were happy to help. The tone should be friendly and dismissive of their gratitude— like saying "it was nothing!"

Che figata!

Pronunciation: keh fee-GAH-tah

Meaning: How cool! / That's awesome! / That's so cool!

Context: This is an enthusiastic expression of admiration or excitement. Use it when something genuinely impresses you— a stunning view, a cool experience, an impressive skill. It's youthful and energetic, so it works best with younger Italians or in casual, fun situations.

Example: Seeing a craftsman create something beautiful: "Che figata! Come hai imparato a farlo?" (That's so cool! How did you learn to do that?)

Be genuine when you use this— Italians can tell when you're forcing enthusiasm. It should come out naturally when you're actually impressed or excited by something.

Dai!

Pronunciation: DIE (like the English word)

Meaning: Come on! / Let's go! / Really?! / Give me a break!

Context: This incredibly versatile word changes meaning based on context and tone. It can be encouraging ("Come on, let's go!"), skeptical ("Come on, really?"), pleading ("Come on, please!"), or dismissive ("Oh, come on, give me a break!"). Italians use it constantly.

Example: Encouraging a friend: "Dai, andiamo!" (Come on, let's go!) Being skeptical: "Dai, non è possibile!" (Come on, that's not possible!)

Listen to how Italians around you use "dai" and you'll quickly understand its flexibility. The tone and context tell you everything about what it means in that moment.

Magari

Pronunciation: mah-GAH-ree

Meaning: I wish! / If only! / Maybe / Hopefully

Context: This beautiful word expresses hope or desire. When someone suggests something you'd love to do, respond with an enthusiastic "Magari!" to say "I wish!" or "If only!" It can also mean "maybe" in the sense of "possibly" when you're not sure about something.

Example: "Vuoi venire in Italia l'anno prossimo?" "Magari!" (Want to come to Italy next year? I wish!)

The tone matters—an enthusiastic "Magari!" means you really hope so, while a more subdued version means maybe or possibly. It's a lovely, expressive word that captures Italian optimism.

Allora

Pronunciation: ah-LOH-rah

Meaning: So / Well / Then / In that case

Context: This is a filler word and transition that Italians use constantly to start sentences, change topics, or pause while thinking. It's similar to how English speakers say "so" or "well" at the beginning of sentences. Using "allora" naturally makes you sound much more fluent.

Example: "Allora, cosa facciamo oggi?" (So, what are we doing today?)

You'll hear this word dozens of times a day in Italy. Start paying attention to how Italians use it, and you'll quickly pick up when it fits naturally. It's one of those small words that make a big difference in sounding natural.

Che casino!

Pronunciation: keh kah-ZEE-noh

Meaning: What a mess! / What chaos!

Context: Despite containing the word "casino," this expression has nothing to do with gambling. It means there's chaos, disorder, or a messy situation. Use it when stuck in traffic, when plans fall apart, or when describing any chaotic situation. It's mildly strong, so use it casually with peers, not in polite company.

Example: Looking at a huge traffic jam: "Che casino!" (What a mess!)

It's emphatic but not vulgar—more exasperated than offensive. Italians say this fairly often because, well, Italy can be charmingly chaotic sometimes.

Basta

Pronunciation: BAH-stah

Meaning: Enough / Stop / That's it / Just

Context: Another incredibly versatile word. It can mean "enough!" when you want something to stop, "that's it!" when you're finished, or "just" when describing something simple. The tone completely changes the meaning.

Example: "Basta così, grazie." (That's enough, thanks.) "Basta dire la verità." (Just tell the truth.)

Listen to the context and tone. A firm "Basta!" means stop. A gentle "Basta così" means that's enough (in a polite way). It's useful in many situations.

Cavolo

Pronunciation: KAH-voh-loh

Meaning: Darn / Shoot / Heck (literally: cabbage)

Context: This is a mild, family-friendly expression of surprise, frustration, or emphasis. Literally meaning "cabbage," it's used as a substitute for stronger words. It's perfect for travelers because it lets you express emotion without risking saying something inappropriate.

Example: "Cavolo, ho dimenticato il telefono!" (Shoot, I forgot my phone!)

Think of it as the Italian equivalent of "darn" or "dang"—strong enough to express feeling but appropriate for almost any situation. You can even use it around children or elderly people.

In bocca al lupo

Pronunciation: een BOH-kah ahl LOO-poh

Meaning: Good luck! (literally: In the mouth of the wolf)

Context: This is the standard way to wish someone good luck in Italian. The traditional response is "Crepi il lupo!" (May the wolf die!), though nowadays many people just say "Crepi!" The literal meaning relates to the idea of escaping from the wolf's mouth.

Example: Before someone's job interview: "In bocca al lupo!" Response: "Crepi!"

Never say "buona fortuna" (good luck) in Italian—it's actually considered bad luck! Always use "in bocca al lupo" instead. It's not really slang, but it's such an important cultural expression that every traveler should know it.

Figo/a

Pronunciation: FEE-goh (masculine) / FEE-gah (feminine)

Meaning: Cool / Awesome / Attractive

Context: Use this to describe something or someone as cool, impressive, or attractive. "Che figo!" means "How cool!" while "È figa quella ragazza" means "That girl is attractive." Be careful with context—it can mean both "cool" (safe for most situations) and "hot/attractive" (more casual).

Example: "Questo posto è figo!" (This place is cool!)

It's more youthful language, so works best with younger Italians in casual settings. With older people or formal situations, stick to "bello" (beautiful) instead.

Non mi va

Pronunciation: nohn mee vah

Meaning: I don't feel like it / I'm not in the mood

Context: This is a casual, honest way to say you don't want to do something without being rude. It's softer than saying "no" directly and very Italian in its emphasis on feeling and mood rather than rational reasons.

Example: "Vuoi uscire stasera?" "Non mi va, sono stanco." (Want to go out tonight? I don't feel like it, I'm tired.)

It's perfectly acceptable in Italian culture to say you don't feel like doing something. Italians respect personal feelings and moods, so this phrase won't offend anyone in casual situations.

Scialla

Pronunciation: SHAHL-lah

Meaning: Chill / Relax / It's all good / No worries

Context: This is younger, more modern slang that's popular especially in Rome and central Italy. It's derived from the Romanesco dialect and means to chill out, relax, or take it easy. You can use it as a command ("Scialla!" = Chill out!) or as an adjective ("Sto scialla" = I'm chilling).

Example: Someone's stressed: "Ehi, scialla! Andrà tutto bene." (Hey, relax! Everything will be okay.)

This is definitely youth slang, so it works best with younger Italians and in casual social settings. Older Italians might not even know this word, and it would sound odd in formal situations.

Che schifo

Pronunciation: keh SKEE-foh

Meaning: How disgusting / That's gross / That's terrible

Context: This expresses strong disgust or disapproval. Use it when food is bad, when something is truly disgusting, or when describing something unpleasant. It's emphatic but not vulgar—perfectly acceptable in casual conversation.

Example: Tasting something awful: "Che schifo! Non si può mangiare." (How disgusting! You can't eat this.)

It's strong, so reserve it for things that genuinely disgust you. Don't use it about people or in situations where you need to be diplomatic.

Meno male

Pronunciation: MEH-noh MAH-leh

Meaning: Thank goodness / Luckily / Good thing

Context: This expresses relief that something bad didn't happen or that something turned out okay. It literally means "less bad" but translates to "thank goodness" or "luckily."

Example: "Ho trovato il passaporto!" "Meno male!" (I found my passport! Thank goodness!)

It's useful, common, and appropriate in almost any situation. Italians use it constantly when expressing relief.

Vabbe' / Va beh

Pronunciation: vah-BEH

Meaning: Oh well / Whatever / Okay fine / Alright then

Context: This is a shortened, slurred version of "va bene" (okay) that expresses resignation, acceptance, or casual agreement. It can mean you're conceding a point, accepting a situation you're not thrilled about, or just casually agreeing.

Example: Plans changed: "Non possiamo andare al mare." "Vabbe', andiamo in montagna." (We can't go to the beach. Oh well, let's go to the mountains.)

The tone matters—it can be dismissive, accepting, or casual depending on how you say it. It's very common and useful for everyday conversation.

Ready to Sound Like a Local?

Learning Italian slang words is about more than just vocabulary—it's about connecting with Italian culture in a more authentic, meaningful way. These expressions reveal how Italians think, what they value, and how they communicate with warmth, humor, and expressiveness.

Want to learn more Italian? Read Dining Phrases for Ordering at a Restaurant!

Remember, the goal isn't to sound like a native Italian (unless you're planning to move there!). The goal is to show respect for Italian culture by learning how people actually speak, to enhance your ability to connect with locals, and to understand the vibrant, living language that surrounds you in Italy.

Start with one or two expressions that feel natural to you. Listen to how Italians use them. Practice in low-stakes situations. Don't be afraid to make mistakes—Italians generally find it endearing when visitors try to speak their language, slang and all. And when an Italian lights up with surprise and delight because you just used "Che figata!" perfectly in context, you'll understand why learning these words is worth it.

At Creative Edge Travel, we're passionate about helping travelers go beyond surface-level tourism to genuine cultural connection. Whether it's learning slang, understanding traditions, or sharing meals with local families, we create opportunities for you to experience the real Italy— the one where people actually live, not just the one in guidebooks.

Want to practice your Italian slang with real Italians? Our small group tours include countless opportunities for genuine conversation with locals— from cooking classes with Italian families to wine tastings with passionate producers to simply spending time in neighborhoods where you'll be surrounded by Italian conversation. Check out our upcoming Italy experiences and start preparing for authentic cultural immersion!

Planning your Italian adventure? Our Custom Travel Planning services help you design a trip that matches your interests and goals. Want to improve your Italian? We can connect you with local language tutors, conversation partners, or simply structure your trip around authentic interactions where you'll practice naturally.

The beauty of language is how it connects us. Every time you use one of these Italian slang words successfully, you're not just speaking Italian— you're building a bridge between yourself and Italian culture, showing respect, creating connection, and opening doors to experiences that tourists who only speak textbook Italian will never have.

Buona fortuna... oops, we mean: In bocca al lupo! (Good luck!)

Ready to immerse yourself in Italian language and culture? Contact us at sierra@creativeedgetravel.com or visit www.creativeedgetravel.com to start planning your authentic Italian adventure!