Episode #257: The one Italian Word you Need to Know

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Would you like to connect with people when you’re in Italy and engage more deeply with the rich culture, but feel overwhelmed by the idea of learning the language? Let’s make it easier! Discover the power of the Italian word ‘vorrei’ – a small yet versatile phrase – and explore other quick, practical words and expressions that can open doors to meaningful interactions. Plus, learn how breaking Italian into manageable chunks can help you build confidence and truly enjoy the learning process.

Summary

In this episode, we welcomed back Italian language teacher Monica Cazzamani Bona, founder of Su Misura Italy. We explored the key to mastering Italian through personalized lessons and practical, everyday contexts. Monica shares her expert tips on making language learning enjoyable, including simplifying your approach and focusing on confidence, how adding the word ‘vorrei’ into your vocabulary goes a long way and even takes Katy through some interesting ways to help learn the art of rolling ‘r’s.

What you’ll learn in this episode

  • Start small and stay confident –  Monica emphasizes that language learning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Begin with small, manageable steps – such as learning two words or phrases a day and focus on practical contexts like recipes. Confidence is key!
  • You can form simple sentences by just learning a few words. From “sono” (I am) and “non” (making something negative) – you can create simple sentences like “Non sono Monica, sono Katy” (“I am not Monica, I am Katy”)
  • Learn practical phrases for daily use. “Vorrei” (I would like) and “Prendo” (I take/I’ll have) are useful in restaurants and “Posso?” (Can I?) is great for forming questions and being polite
  • Personalize your learning. Whether you prefer apps, group classes, or one-on-one tuition, find the method that works best for you. Personalized lessons can significantly enhance your speaking ability and overall fluency
  • Repetition of practicing certain words for rolling those ‘r’s, will help you, as most English speakers haven’t used much of the muscles in the mouth they use
  • Don’t miss out on the special 50% discount on Monica’s 4 Weeks to Italy Course with the code ‘UNTOLDITALY’!

Timeline Overview

  • 03:45 Confidence and personalized learning improve language skills
  • 12:15 Use related words for effective sentences
  • 18:29 R-rolling – some interesting ways to practice and work the new muscles you are using
  • 24:52 Learning never ends; embrace simplicity and understanding
  • 31:53 Connect with Monica via her website or Instagram – with a 50% discount on the 4 Weeks to Italy Course use code ‘UNTOLDITALY’

About our guest – Monica Cazzamani Bona from Su Misura Italy

Monica Cazzamani Bona brings a passion for Italian culture and language to her business Su Misura Italy. Born in Govone, Piemonte (Piedmont), Monica learned the essence of Italian hospitality from her grandparents’ grocery store. With a background in Architecture from Turin, Monica’s heart remains tied to the Langhe & Roero hills. Su Misura Italy was founded in 2018 to share Italian culture and language in a personalized way. Monica’s teaching vision focuses on making learning relaxed and enjoyable, with customized attention for each student.

Su Misura Italy offers bespoke Italian language lessons tailored to your needs and goals, since 2018. One-on-one sessions are conducted on Zoom for flexibility and convenience. They specialize in helping adults navigate their unique journey to fluency and provide an alternative to standard group classes, catering to individual learning styles and preferences. Monica and her team work with students all over the world.
 
Book a free meet and greet with Monica to discuss your language goals and preferences >> here. The meet and greet helps Monica match you with the best teacher from her team and create a customized lesson plan tailored to you.

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Italian places, foods and concepts mentioned

Places

  • Govone – Monica’s home village in Piemonte (Piedmont)

Words / Concepts

  • come stai – how are you?
  • sono – I am
  • bellissimo – very good
  • e – and
  • per esempio – for example
  • felice – happy
  • triste – sad
  • stanco/stanca – tired
  • è – it is
  • molto bene – very good
  • qui – here
  • vorrei – I would like
  • questo – this/this one
  • fantastico – fantastic
  • mangiare – to eat
  • visitare – to visit
  • parlare – to speak
  • prendo – I take
  • prendo un piatto di pasta – I’ll have a plate of pasta
  • prendo una bistecca – I’ll have a steak
  • caro – expensive
  • carro – wagon
  • presso?/presso – can I?/I can
  • cantare – to sing
  • volare – to fly
  • posso dormire? – can I sleep

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