False friendEverydayItalian

Firma

Meaning: Actually means 'signature'. Metti la tua firma = Put your signature here.

Looks like: Firm (company)

Origin: From Latin firmare, 'to confirm' — a signature confirms; Italian keeps this sense.

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  • Fart Actually means 'speed' or 'momentum'. Full fart = full speed ahead.
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  • Full Actually means 'drunk'. Jeg er full = I'm drunk — not full after a meal.
  • Jornal Actually means 'newspaper'. For a personal journal (diary), say diário.
  • Bekommen Actually means 'to receive' or 'to get'. To become is werden.

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  • Magazzino Actually means 'warehouse' or 'storeroom'. A magazine (periodical) is una rivista.
  • Morbido Actually means 'soft', 'gentle', or 'smooth'. Una voce morbida = a gentle, smooth voice.
  • Fattoria Actually means 'farm'. A factory is una fabbrica.
  • Fame Actually means 'hunger'. Ho fame = I'm hungry. For fame (renown), say fama.
  • Caldo Actually means 'hot' (or a hot broth). Cold is freddo.
  • Bravo Actually means 'good, skilled, well-behaved'. For brave, say coraggioso.

Explore another collection: Untranslatable Words

Words that capture a feeling or idea English needs a whole sentence for.

  • Menefreghista Someone who has made not caring into an entire stance — indifference as a way of life.
  • Apericena The evening drink whose accompanying buffet is generous enough to replace dinner altogeth…
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