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How to Say ‘It's similar, but smaller.’ in Italian

È simile, ma più piccolo.

eh SEE-mee-leh mah pyoo Pee-koh-loh

[eh SEE-mee-leh mah pyoo Pee-koh-loh]

Phrase Breakdown

È simile,

eh SEE-mee-leh

It's similar,

Stress falls on the first syllable: SEE-mi-le.

Example

Il gusto è simile.

The taste is similar.

Words in this phrase

[eh]

It is

Used to describe the state, condition, or location of something.

Example

È importante ricordare tutte le regole.

It is important to remember all the rules.

simile

[SEE-mee-leh]

similar

Adjective meaning alike.

Example

Questo caffè è simile al mio.

This coffee is similar to mine.

ma più piccolo.

mah pyoo Pee-koh-loh

but smaller.

'Più' + adjective makes a comparative. The double 'cc' is held: PEEK-ko-lo.

Example

Questo è più piccolo.

This one is smaller.

Words in this phrase

[mah]

But

Used to introduce a contrasting statement or question.

Example

Ma non capisco perché ma allora lei è felice.

But I don't understand why but then she is happy.

più

[pyoo]

Comparative word used to indicate a greater amount or degree.

Example

Con più responsabilità. impari di più.

With more responsibility, you learn more.

piccolo

[Pee-koh-loh]

Small

Describes a small size or quantity.

Example

Vorrei un caffè piccolo, per favore.

I would like a small coffee, please.

Guides for Italian learners

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