| Be My Italian Valentine! |
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Part 2: St. Valentine/Vocabulary List
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"I am always forgetting how to say 'I miss you'. Is it 'Mi manchi'? Any tips on how to remember?"
MELMAL
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It is strange to think that Saint Valentine, who was renowned for his chastity, became the patron saint of lovers. The historical antecedent comes from two sources. During classical Roman times, Emperor Claudius II decreed marriage forbidden for soldiers. A priest named Valentine ignored this decree and encouraged young people to be united in holy matrimony. For this, he was sentenced to prison and executed on February 14th.
In 1465, Pope Paul II authorized the distribution of marriage gifts to poor women. The first ceremony was set for February 14th, and Saint Valentine, whose sainthood was celebrated on this day, became known as the protector of lovers.
The Italian language is rich in expressions and idioms, and frasi d'amore on Valentine's Day are especially endearing. In English, the expression "I love you" is ubiquitous, while in Italian "Ti amo" is used only between lovers, never with friends, family, or inanimate objects. Instead, the expressions "Vuoi bene" or "Ti voglio bene" are preferred. When in doubt, refer to an Italian language relationship primer. For the truly romantic, learn how to say 'I Love You' in Italian.
Italian Valentine Vocabulary List
Click to hear the highlighted word spoken by a native speaker.
Be My Italian Valentine! > Page 1, 2
