Purtroppo (transl. Unfortunately)
🗓️ 14 maggio 2024 — Dive into today's Italian word of the day, its origins, and its uses. Explore Italian language and culture with us!
[poor-TROP-po]
ADVERB
Unfortunately.
"Purtroppo" is an adverb expressing regret, disappointment, or dismay, often used to preface unfortunate news or events.
🚨 PRONUNCIATION ALERT
Many people, even Italians, mistakenly pronounce "purtroppo" as "pultroppo," likely because the 'r' and 't' sounds are close together, making the 'r' less audible.
Indeed, if you google “purtroppo,” you will find many results of people asking how this word is written.
💬 EXAMPLE SENTENCES
Purtroppo, non possiamo partecipare alla festa.
Unfortunately, we cannot attend the party.
Il concerto è stato annullato, purtroppo.
The concert has been canceled, unfortunately.
Purtroppo, il meteo prevede pioggia tutto il giorno.
Unfortunately, the weather forecast predicts rain all day.
🔎 WORD ORIGINS
Purtroppo comes from the Italian words “pure" [even if] and "troppo" [too much], originally forming the phrase “pure se è troppo” [even if it is too much]. This etymology reflects a deeper, more empathetic expression compared to its synonyms like "sfortunatamente" [unfortunately, with a connotation of bad luck] or "disgraziatamente/tragicamente" [tragically, implying serious misfortune].
Unlike its harsher synonyms, purtroppo carries a more human and participative tone. It doesn't merely observe misfortune but rather emphasizes the burden it places on those involved, making it a poignant and heartfelt expression of regret in everyday Italian.
🤓 DID YOU KNOW THAT…
IMPRESS YOUR ITALIAN FRIENDS WITH CURIOUS FACTS ABOUT ITALY AND ITS CULTURE
The Italian painter Oddine Guarnieri explored the emotional depth of purtroppo in his painting, which is also titled "Purtroppo." This artwork delves into the themes of melancholy and resignation, visually interpreting the heavy-heartedness that the word often conveys. Guarnieri's use of somber colors and expressive forms captures the essence of "purtroppo" as more than just a word but a profound human experience.
👉 YOUR TURN
Can you use the word PURTROPPO correctly in a sentence?
Based on the definition and examples provided, write a sentence using today's word of the day and share it as a comment on this post. It is important that your sentence makes sense and shows that you understand the word's definition, but we also encourage you to use creativity and have fun.