Meaning
To be exposed to cold air.
Cultural Background
The concept of 'colpo d'aria' is a major cultural pillar in Italy, often blamed for everything from back pain to colds. Similar to Italy, many Mediterranean cultures emphasize dressing warmly to avoid 'taking' the cold. Less emphasis on 'drafts' as a cause of illness, more on germs and viruses. Similar to Italy, there is a strong cultural focus on avoiding cold to prevent illness, often using masks.
Context is key
Always check if you are describing a state (avere) or an event (prendere).
The 'Colpo d'aria' myth
Don't argue with an Italian about whether a draft causes a cold; just accept it as a cultural truth!
Meaning
To be exposed to cold air.
Context is key
Always check if you are describing a state (avere) or an event (prendere).
The 'Colpo d'aria' myth
Don't argue with an Italian about whether a draft causes a cold; just accept it as a cultural truth!
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
Non uscire senza giacca, altrimenti ______ freddo!
The collocation is 'prendere freddo'.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the correct option.
No article is needed with 'prendere freddo'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Perché tossisci? B: ______ ieri sera.
Past tense is required to explain the reason for the cough.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesNon uscire senza giacca, altrimenti ______ freddo!
The collocation is 'prendere freddo'.
Choose the correct option.
No article is needed with 'prendere freddo'.
A: Perché tossisci? B: ______ ieri sera.
Past tense is required to explain the reason for the cough.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsNo, the article 'il' is not used in this collocation.
No, 'avere freddo' is a state, 'prendere freddo' is an event.
Related Phrases
colpo d'aria
similardraft
avere freddo
contrastto be cold
prendersi un raffreddore
builds onto catch a cold
coprirsi bene
contrastto dress warmly
