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How to Say ‘Mate / Buddy’ in Italian

Frate

FRAH-teh

[FRAH-teh]

💬 Usage Tip: frate is a clipped form of fratello "brother", the same way English shortens brother to bro.

🇮🇹 In Italy: Very common among young people, especially in northern cities like Milan. Use it only with friends your own age.

Phrase Breakdown

Frate

[FRAH-teh]

bro / brother

Slang short for 'fratello', used to address a close friend.

Example

Frate, ci vediamo stasera?

Bro, see you tonight?

Guides for Italian learners

Duolingo vs Busuu: Which Is Better for Actually Improving?Duolingo vs Busuu compared: a free gamified habit versus structured levels with corrections from native speakers. Which to choose, and when to use both.

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