telefono — meaning in English: phone

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Guess the translation for telephone

cipolla

telefono

rosso

viaggio

frutta

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neutral very common

Usage

Native Italian speakers commonly use the word 'telefono' in everyday situations, such as when making plans with friends or family. For example, you might hear 'Passami il telefono' when someone wants to borrow your phone to make a call.

Synonyms & nuances

'Telefono' is a general term for a phone, while 'cellulare' specifically refers to a mobile phone. You would use 'telefono' when discussing the device in general, but 'cellulare' when talking about modern smartphones or mobile connectivity.

Culture

'Telefono' comes from the Greek roots 'tele' meaning 'distant' and 'phone' meaning 'voice' or 'sound.' The invention of the telephone revolutionized communication in the late 19th century, and today, it plays a central role in Italian culture, where making a phone call is often considered a personal way to connect with loved ones.

FAQ

Q.What is the plural form of telefono?

The plural form is 'telefoni.' You can use this when referring to multiple phones, such as in a conversation about various models.

Q.How do you say 'to call' in Italian?

'Chiamare' is the verb for 'to call.' So, if you want to say 'I will call you,' you would say 'Ti chiamerò.'

Q.Are there any common phrases that use telefono?

Yes! A common phrase is 'Prendere il telefono,' which means 'to answer the phone.' It's often used when someone is being asked to pick up a call.

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