alla sprovvista
Meaning: Without warning; caught unprepared or by surprise.
Language: Italian
Literally: at the unprepared
Category: Daily Life
Origin: Origin uncertain; the phrase refers to catching someone while they lack preparation or readiness.
More idioms — Daily Life
- alla bell'e meglio — In a sloppy, careless, or makeshift manner; doing something poorly for lack of effort or…
- tutto d'un colpo — Suddenly; all at once; without warning or gradual transition.
- cattedrale nel deserto — A large industrial facility built in a remote, poorly-connected region that produces litt…
- volta e meia — Occasionally or now and then.
- fora do armário — To reveal a secret identity or hidden truth, especially regarding sexual orientation or p…
- nada a ver — Nonsense or absurdity; something that makes no sense.
More Italian idioms
- mettere le corna — To commit infidelity against a partner; to cuckold someone.
- senza capo né coda — In a senseless or disjointed way; without coherence, order, or point.
- a casa del diavolo — Far away; a great distance to travel; the long way around.
- In bocca al lupo — Good luck! (replied with 'Crepi!' — may it die).
- Non tutte le ciambelle riescono col buco — Things don't always go as planned.
- Avere le braccine corte — To be stingy; to never reach for the check.
From our untranslatable words
- 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…
- Abbiocco — The heavy, irresistible drowsiness that comes after a large meal — the post-lunch stupor…