Meaning
Asking for the definition of a word.
Cultural Background
People might use 'Cosa vuol dire?' more frequently than 'Che significa?' in casual settings. The tone is often more expressive; the question might be accompanied by hand gestures. In formal settings, using the full 'Cosa significa questo termine?' is preferred.
Use it often
Don't be afraid to ask. Italians love to explain their language.
Don't use for people
Never use 'Che significa' to ask about a person's character.
Meaning
Asking for the definition of a word.
Use it often
Don't be afraid to ask. Italians love to explain their language.
Don't use for people
Never use 'Che significa' to ask about a person's character.
Add 'questo'
Say 'Che significa questo?' to be very clear.
Test Yourself
Select the correct way to ask for a definition.
____ 'casa'?
Use 'Che significa' to ask for the meaning of a word.
Complete the sentence.
Non capisco questa parola. ____?
The context is not understanding a word, so we use the definition question.
Match the question to the intent.
Che significa?
This phrase is specifically for definitions.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Ho visto un cartello con scritto 'Vietato'. B: ____?
B wants to know the meaning of the sign.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises____ 'casa'?
Use 'Che significa' to ask for the meaning of a word.
Non capisco questa parola. ____?
The context is not understanding a word, so we use the definition question.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
This phrase is specifically for definitions.
A: Ho visto un cartello con scritto 'Vietato'. B: ____?
B wants to know the meaning of the sign.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsYes, it is neutral and polite enough for professional settings.
No, it is a very helpful and polite way to learn.
You can say 'Puoi ripetere?' (Can you repeat?).
Yes, it works for both words and physical actions.
Yes, they are 100% interchangeable.
The 'gn' is a special Italian sound like the 'ny' in 'canyon'.
Yes, it is very common in texting.
Yes, it is one of the first phrases you should learn.
Related Phrases
Cosa vuol dire?
synonymWhat does it mean?
Cosa intendi?
similarWhat do you mean?
Spiegami
builds onExplain to me
