Listen to “272. Grazie! And more: How to express your appreciation in Italian” on Spreaker.
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Showing appreciation in Italy is an important part of everyday life and a key to building genuine connections. Whether you’re complimenting a delicious meal, thanking someone for their help, or visiting friends, knowing how to express gratitude the Italian way matters. From choosing the right words to understanding the gestures and cultural expectations behind them, we share practical tips and insights to help you show appreciation with authenticity and warmth.
Summary
In this episode, we are joined once again by Monica Cazzamani Bona, of language school s Su Misura Italy to dive into the art of showing appreciation in Italian, moving beyond the classic “grazie.” Monica shares her expert tips on nailing pronunciation, explains the subtle but important differences between words like “bravo,” “buono,” and “bella,” and even reveals the cultural secrets behind all those enthusiastic Italian gestures and smiles and how to leave lasting impressions – whether you’re complimenting a chef, thanking a tour guide, or visiting friends in Italy.
What you’ll learn in this episode
- How to pronounce “grazie” correctly and use variations like “Mille grazie” and “Grazie a te!”
- The differences between “bravo,” “buono,” and “bello,” and how to use them naturally
- How to intensify compliments with endings like “-issimo” (e.g., “bravissima!”)
- Ways to give everyday compliments that feel authentic and heartfelt
- The role of gestures in Italian communication – including the classic “buono!” cheek twist
- When and how to use the affectionate Italian double cheek kiss
- Tips on tipping: when it’s expected, when it’s not, and what’s considered polite
- What kinds of thank-you gifts are most appreciated in Italian homes
- Why expressive language and tone matter as much as the words themselves
- How smiling and showing warmth helps you connect more deeply with Italians
Timeline Overview
- 05:10 Getting “Grazie” right
- 11:11 Italian descriptors in context
- 13:16 The importance of ‘La Bella Figura’
- 16:30 Appreciation enhances work satisfaction
- 18:27 Cultural differences in small talk
- 27:17 Gifts when visiting Italians
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.
Follow Monica here
- Website
- 4 Weeks to Italy Course (use code ‘UNTOLDITALY’ for a 50% discount)
Italian places, foods and concepts mentioned
Words / Concepts
- buono/buona – good
- brava/bravo – well done. For performance
- buonissimo/buonissima – very good. Particularly for taste
- bravissimo/bravissima – excellent
- bella/bello – good in relation to appearance. So beautiful
- la Bella Figura – refers to making a good impression/being seen in the best light
- tutto bene(?) – everything is good(?) often said in restaurants by the those waiting
- multo bene – very good
- che – what, which, who
- che bello/che grande – how beautiful/large
- che bel vestito – what a beautiful dress
- che caldo – how hot
- che sole – what about this sun
- che pioggia – what about this rain
- che giornata – what a day! different if used in a positive ‘what a great day’ way or if said negatively, to mean it is a bad day
- grazie per l’aiuto – thanks for your help
- grazie per la visita – thanks for the visit
- grazie per la bella giornata – thanks for the beautiful day
- grazie a te – thanks to you
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