per amore o per forza

Meaning: by any means necessary; whether one wishes it or not.

Language: Italian

Literally: for love or for force

Category: Daily Life

Origin: The phrase presents a stark binary: willing compliance or coercion—together they cover all possible outcomes.

More idioms — Daily Life

tirare l'acqua al proprio mulino — to act in self-interest, redirecting resources or advantage to oneself.
in pompa magna — with ceremony, grandeur, and great fanfare.
alle calende greche — never; at an impossible or non-existent time.
mi sa — I suppose, I guess, or I have the impression.
nei panni di — In the position, role, or situation of someone else; in their shoes.
andare a nozze — To be perfectly suited or to delight in something.

mettere radici — to settle in a place permanently or commit to something long-term.
tenere a freno la lingua — to refrain from speaking; to keep silent.
farsene un baffo — to not care at all; to be indifferent to something.
sulle spine — In a state of anxious suspense or nervous tension, unable to relax.
a gambe levate — With great speed or haste, moving rapidly or impetuously.
pendaglio da forca — A person who deserves to be hanged; a worthless scoundrel.

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