How do you say "They almost scored!" in Italian?

"They almost scored!" in Italian is "Per poco non segnavano!". This phrase is commonly used in Italy.

🤏

How to Say ‘They almost scored!’ in Italian

Q: What does "Per poco non segnavano!" mean in English?

"Per poco non segnavano!" means "They almost scored!" in English. Usage tip: Funny Italian twist: "per poco non..." literally looks negative, but it means something nearly happened.

Per poco non segnavano!

pehr POH-koh nohn sen-YAH-vah-noh

[pehr POH-koh nohn sen-YAH-vah-noh]

💬 Usage Tip: Funny Italian twist: "per poco non..." literally looks negative, but it means something nearly happened.

🇮🇹 In Italy: Classic fan language during a tense match. Expect hands on head, wide eyes, and maybe someone standing up from the sofa.

Phrase Breakdown

Per

[pehr]

for / by

Part of the set expression per poco, used to say something nearly happened in a dramatic moment.

Example

Per poco non segnavano! Che paura.

They almost scored! How scary.

poco

[POH-koh]

little

Together with per, it forms per poco, a common expression for 'almost'.

Example

Per poco non segnavano! Eravamo tutti in silenzio.

They almost scored! We all went silent.

non

[nohn]

not

Negation used in this idiomatic structure to express a close call.

Example

Per poco non segnavano! Il pubblico era in panico.

They almost scored! The crowd was panicking.

segnavano

[sen-YAH-vah-noh]

they were scoring / they scored

Imperfect of segnare; here it describes the other team nearly scoring during the action.

Example

Per poco non segnavano! Il portiere ci ha salvati.

They almost scored! The goalkeeper saved us.

Get the Full Learning Experience

This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.

Pronunciation Feedback

AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent

Spaced Repetition

Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice

Immersive Roleplaying

Practice real conversations with AI partners

Custom Scenarios

Request lessons tailored to your specific needs

Get Full Lesson

What Learners Are Saying

“Spent the summer in Tuscany researching Italian cuisine. Being able to chat with nonnas at the market about recipes? Absolutely priceless.”

Grace P., 34, Food Writer

“Working on a project in Milan and needed professional Italian fast. The business scenarios gave me the confidence to present to clients within a month.”

Daniel F., 45, Architect

“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”

Alex M., 42, Software Engineer