At the A1 level, 'compensare' is a bit advanced, but you might see it in very simple contexts about making things right. Think of it like saying 'to make better' after a small mistake. At this stage, you don't need to use it in complex grammar, just understand that it means 'to fix a balance.' For example, if you give a friend a candy because you forgot their birthday, you are trying to 'compensare.' Italian beginners should focus on the basic idea of giving something to balance a situation. It is a regular -are verb, so it conjugates like 'parlare.' You can say 'Io compenso' or 'Tu compensi.' Keep it simple and focus on physical objects or simple actions. It is less common than 'scusarsi' (to apologize), but it is a good word to know if you want to show you are trying to be fair in a conversation.
At the A2 level, you can start using 'compensare' to talk about daily life, especially work and time. For instance, if you work more hours on Monday, you might work fewer hours on Tuesday to 'compensare.' This is a very practical use. You should also recognize the word in simple news headlines or signs. For example, 'Compensare le emissioni' (Offset emissions) is a phrase you might see on travel websites. At this level, you should be able to conjugate it in the present tense and the 'passato prossimo' (e.g., 'Ho compensato'). You are moving beyond just 'making things better' to the idea of 'balancing resources.' It is useful for explaining why you are doing something extra or why you are resting after a long period of activity.
At the B1 level, you should use 'compensare' to describe emotions and more complex social situations. You can talk about how one quality makes up for a lack of another. For example, 'Lui non è molto alto, ma la sua velocità compensa' (He is not very tall, but his speed makes up for it). This is the level where you start using the verb to describe character traits and comparative advantages. You should also be comfortable using it with the preposition 'con' (with) to explain the method of compensation. You might also encounter the noun 'compenso' in the context of getting paid for a small job or 'lavoretto.' Your sentences should start becoming longer, connecting the act of compensation to a specific reason or cause using 'perché' or 'siccome.'
At the B2 level, 'compensare' becomes a tool for professional and technical discussion. You should use it in business contexts, such as discussing 'compensare le perdite' (compensating for losses) or 'compensare gli straordinari' (paying for overtime). You are expected to use it correctly as a transitive verb without always relying on the English 'for' structure. You should also understand the reflexive 'compensarsi' to describe how two things naturally balance each other out. This level requires you to use the verb in various tenses, including the 'imperfetto' and the 'futuro.' You should be able to participate in a debate about environmental issues and use 'compensare' to talk about carbon offsets or ecological balance. Your vocabulary should now include related words like 'compensazione' and 'indennizzo.'
At the C1 level, you must master the nuances of 'compensare.' You should use it to express abstract philosophical or legal concepts. For example, you might discuss how a society tries to 'compensare' historical injustices through specific policies. You should be aware of the stylistic choice between the active and passive voice and use the 'si passivante' (e.g., 'Si devono compensare gli sforzi') to sound more academic. At this stage, you should also be able to distinguish 'compensare' from its synonyms like 'controbilanciare' or 'indennizzare' with high precision. Your use of the verb should be fluid in the subjunctive mood, expressing necessity, doubt, or desire in complex subordinate clauses. You are expected to understand the word in high-level literature and formal speeches, recognizing its role in maintaining rhetorical balance.
At the C2 level, 'compensare' is used with total native-like fluency, including in highly specialized fields like law, advanced economics, or scientific research. You understand the subtle legal implications of 'compensazione' in the Italian Civil Code and can use the verb to describe intricate systems of checks and balances in governance. You can use the word metaphorically in creative writing or sophisticated oratory to describe the human condition—how we seek equilibrium in a chaotic world. You are also sensitive to the 'calque' risk of English influence and choose your prepositions and sentence structures to reflect pure Italian syntax. At this level, 'compensare' is not just a verb; it is a conceptual tool used to dissect and describe the fundamental mechanisms of balance in any given system, whether it be a machine, a market, or a soul.

compensare in 30 Sekunden

  • Compensare is a C1 Italian verb meaning to balance, offset, or make up for a loss or deficiency in various contexts.
  • It is primarily used as a transitive verb, taking a direct object without the mandatory preposition 'per' often found in English.
  • The word is essential for professional, legal, and academic discussions involving reparations, economic balance, and technical adjustments.
  • Common synonyms include 'bilanciare' for physical balance and 'rimediare' for fixing problems, while 'compensare' focuses on reaching equilibrium.

The Italian verb compensare is a multifaceted word that English speakers usually translate as 'to compensate,' 'to make up for,' or 'to offset.' At its core, it describes the act of providing something to balance out a loss, a deficiency, or a negative effect. In the Italian language, this word carries a weight of equilibrium and justice, often used when one is trying to restore a state of fairness or functionality after an imbalance has occurred. Whether you are talking about a financial transaction where a loss is covered or a personal relationship where an effort is made to rectify a mistake, compensare is the go-to term for restoration.

Financial Context
In the world of business and economics, compensare is used to describe the process of covering costs or losses. For instance, if a company loses money in one sector but makes a profit in another, the profit is said to compensare the loss. It is also used in the context of wages, where 'compensazione' refers to the total package of pay and benefits provided to an employee to balance the labor they provide.
Emotional and Social Balance
In social settings, the word is frequently used to describe efforts to fix a bad situation. If you arrive late to a dinner, you might bring a very expensive bottle of wine to compensare for your tardiness. Here, the physical gift is meant to balance the emotional or social 'debt' created by being late. It implies a conscious effort to restore harmony in a relationship or social dynamic.
Scientific and Technical Use
In technical fields, compensare refers to adjustments made to a system to ensure it functions correctly despite external variables. For example, a thermostat might compensare for a drop in outside temperature by increasing the heat inside. In aviation or navigation, instruments must often compensare for magnetic interference or wind speed to provide accurate readings. It is about maintaining a steady state through active adjustment.

“Dobbiamo lavorare sodo questo fine settimana per compensare il tempo che abbiamo perso durante lo sciopero.”

Understanding the nuance of compensare requires recognizing that it is usually a transitive verb in Italian, meaning it takes a direct object. You compensate something. While in English we often say 'to compensate for something,' in Italian, the preposition 'per' is frequently omitted when the object is the thing being balanced out. However, 'compensare per' is becoming more common due to English influence, though purists prefer the direct construction. This distinction is crucial for C1 learners who wish to sound more like native speakers and less like they are translating literally from English.

“La sua grande passione per lo studio riesce a compensare la mancanza di esperienza pratica nel settore.”

“L'azienda ha deciso di compensare tutti i clienti che hanno subito dei ritardi nelle consegne.”

“Il sapore dolce del dessert serve a compensare l'acidità della frutta fresca.”

“Non è sempre possibile compensare un danno morale con una semplice somma di denaro.”

Using compensare correctly involves understanding its syntactic flexibility. It can be used in various tenses and moods to express hypothetical situations, past regrets, or future plans for restoration. Because it is a C1 level word, you are expected to use it in complex sentence structures, often involving subordinate clauses or gerunds to explain the 'how' and 'why' of the compensation. Below, we explore the different ways this verb integrates into high-level Italian discourse.

Direct Object Usage
When compensare takes a direct object, the object is usually the deficit or the person receiving the benefit. For example: 'Compensare le perdite' (To compensate the losses) or 'Compensare i dipendenti' (To compensate the employees). This is the most direct and common way to use the verb in both formal and informal settings.
Reflexive Form: Compensarsi
The reflexive form compensarsi is used when two things balance each other out. For instance, 'I pregi e i difetti di questo piano si compensano' (The pros and cons of this plan balance each other out). This suggests a natural or inherent equilibrium where two opposing forces reach a neutral state.
Using Prepositions
While often transitive, compensare can be followed by 'con' (with) to specify the means of compensation. 'Compensare la mancanza di sonno con il caffè' (To compensate for the lack of sleep with coffee). This construction is vital for explaining the method used to achieve balance.

“Sebbene la squadra abbia perso il capitano, l'entusiasmo dei giovani giocatori sembra compensare ampiamente questa assenza.”

In formal writing, such as academic essays or legal documents, compensare is used to discuss reparations or the mitigation of environmental impacts. You might read about companies needing to 'compensare le emissioni di carbonio' (offset carbon emissions). In these contexts, the word carries a sense of mandatory responsibility. It is not just a kind gesture; it is a required action to nullify a negative footprint.

“Per compensare l'errore nel sistema, il tecnico ha dovuto riscrivere intere righe di codice durante la notte.”

“Il governo ha introdotto nuovi incentivi per compensare l'aumento del costo della vita per le famiglie a basso reddito.”

“In un ecosistema, la crescita di una specie può spesso compensare il declino di un'altra, mantenendo la biodiversità.”

“Non credo che un regalo costoso possa compensare il tempo che non hai passato con i tuoi figli.”

When practicing, try to use compensare in the subjunctive mood to express desire or necessity: 'È necessario che l'azienda compensi i lavoratori per il rischio assunto.' This demonstrates a high level of grammatical control and conceptual understanding.

The word compensare is ubiquitous in Italian life, appearing in news broadcasts, legal proceedings, sports commentary, and daily conversations. Understanding where you will encounter it helps in grasping its various registers and social implications. It is a word that bridges the gap between technical jargon and everyday human emotion.

The Evening News (TG1, TG5)
In news reports about the economy, you will constantly hear about 'misure per compensare l'inflazione' (measures to compensate for inflation). Journalists use it to describe government interventions intended to shield citizens from economic shifts. It sounds authoritative and serious in this context.
Sports Commentary
Listen to a football (soccer) match on Sky Sport Italia, and you'll hear commentators discuss how a team's tactical discipline must compensare for a lack of individual talent. 'La grinta della squadra compensa la mancanza di tecnica.' Here, it describes a strategic balance on the field.
Legal and Bureaucratic Documents
In Italian law, 'compensazione' is a specific legal mechanism where two people who owe each other money can cancel out their debts. You will see compensare in contracts and court rulings regarding damages and reparations. It carries a heavy legal weight of obligation.

“Il giudice ha stabilito che la parte soccombente deve compensare interamente le spese legali sostenute dalla controparte.”

In literature and cinema, compensare is often used to explore the internal lives of characters. A protagonist might try to compensare a childhood trauma with professional success, or a tragic hero might find that no amount of glory can compensare the loss of a loved one. Italian directors like Paolo Sorrentino or Luca Guadagnino often use dialogue where characters reflect on what they are trying to balance in their lives.

“Nelle interviste, l'attore ha ammesso di aver usato il lavoro per compensare un profondo senso di solitudine.”

“Durante la conferenza stampa, il ministro ha spiegato come compensare il taglio dei fondi alla sanità.”

“I ricercatori stanno cercando nuovi modi per compensare la perdita di habitat naturale causata dall'urbanizzazione.”

“In cucina, se metti troppo sale, puoi provare a compensare aggiungendo una patata o un po' di zucchero.”

Whether you are reading a high-brow newspaper like Corriere della Sera or chatting with a friend at a bar about a missed appointment, compensare provides the linguistic tool to discuss the delicate art of balancing life's many variables.

Even at a C1 level, learners can stumble when using compensare. Most of these errors stem from 'linguistic interference'—applying English grammar rules to Italian words. Because the English 'compensate' and Italian compensare look so similar, it is easy to assume they behave identically in a sentence. However, there are subtle differences that can mark you as a non-native speaker.

Overusing the Preposition 'Per'
In English, we almost always say 'compensate FOR something.' In Italian, compensare is primarily transitive. Saying 'Voglio compensare per il mio errore' is understandable but often considered a calque of English. A more native-sounding version is 'Voglio compensare il mio errore.' The 'per' is redundant because the verb itself carries the meaning of 'making up for.'
Confusing with 'Rimediare'
While they are related, rimediare means 'to fix' or 'to remedy' a specific problem. Compensare is about balance. If you break a vase, you rimedia by gluing it back together. If you cannot fix it, you compensa the owner by buying a new one or doing a favor. Using compensare when you actually mean 'to fix' can sound slightly off.
Misusing the Passive Voice
Learners often struggle with the passive form 'essere compensato.' While correct ('I lavoratori devono essere compensati'), Italians often prefer the active voice or the 'si passivante' in formal writing: 'Si devono compensare i lavoratori.' Over-reliance on the English-style passive can make your Italian sound stiff and translated.

“Errore: Ho cercato di compensare per la mia assenza. Corretto: Ho cercato di compensare la mia assenza.”

Another common mistake is applying compensare to simple financial refunds. If you return a shirt to a store, they rimborsano (refund) you. They don't compensano you unless they give you something extra to make up for the inconvenience of the shirt being faulty. Compensare always implies an 'extra' effort to restore a balance that was lost.

“Non puoi compensare una mancanza di rispetto con un semplice 'scusa' detto a bassa voce.”

“È un errore pensare che il successo nel lavoro possa compensare il fallimento nella vita privata.”

“Dobbiamo stare attenti a non compensare eccessivamente, rischiando di creare un nuovo squilibrio.”

“Il tecnico ha cercato di compensare la pressione dell'acqua, ma ha finito per rompere la valvola.”

To avoid these mistakes, always ask yourself: 'Am I trying to balance two things?' If the answer is yes, compensare is likely the right choice. Just keep the grammar lean and avoid unnecessary prepositions.

Italian is a language rich in synonyms, and compensare has several 'cousins' that you should know to vary your vocabulary and achieve C1/C2 level precision. Choosing the right alternative depends on whether you are talking about money, physics, emotions, or logic.

Bilanciare vs. Compensare
Bilanciare is more physical or literal. You balance a checkbook or balance on one leg. Compensare is more about the action of adding something to reach that balance. Use bilanciare for the state of equilibrium and compensare for the corrective measure.
Rimediare vs. Compensare
As mentioned before, rimediare is 'to fix.' If you fail an exam, you rimedi by retaking it. If you fail an exam and then study twice as hard for the next one to keep your GPA high, you are compensando for the low grade.
Controbilanciare
This is a stronger version of compensare, often used in political or scientific contexts to mean 'to counterbalance.' It implies two powerful forces working against each other to maintain stability. 'Il potere legislativo deve controbilanciare quello esecutivo.'
Indennizzare
This is the legal term for 'to indemnify' or 'to provide restitution.' Use this instead of compensare when speaking specifically about insurance payouts or court-ordered damages for physical or property harm.

“Dobbiamo equilibrare il budget prima della fine dell'anno fiscale per evitare sanzioni.”

In more informal settings, you might hear 'farsi perdonare' (to make oneself be forgiven). For example, 'Voglio farmi perdonare per il ritardo' is a very common way to say 'I want to compensate for being late.' While compensare is perfectly correct, 'farsi perdonare' sounds more natural and warm in personal relationships.

“L'azienda ha dovuto indennizzare i residenti per l'inquinamento acustico prodotto dalla fabbrica.”

“Il suo ottimismo riesce sempre a neutralizzare il pessimismo del resto del gruppo.”

“Per integrare il suo stipendio basso, ha deciso di fare delle lezioni private la sera.”

“È difficile colmare il vuoto lasciato dalla scomparsa di un grande artista come lui.”

By mastering these alternatives, you show that you don't just know the word compensare, but you understand the entire semantic field of balance and restoration in Italian.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

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Neutral

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Informell

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Child friendly

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Umgangssprache

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Wusstest du?

The root 'pensare' is the same as the Italian word for 'to think'. This is because 'thinking' was originally conceptualized as 'weighing ideas' in one's mind.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /kom.penˈsa.re/
US /kəm.pɛnˈsɑ.reɪ/
The primary stress is on the third syllable: com-pen-SA-re.
Reimt sich auf
pensare parlare amare andare cantare giocare aspettare guardare
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing the 's' as a 'z' (it should be voiceless /s/ because it follows 'n').
  • Stressing the first syllable like the English 'COMPensate'.
  • Making the final 'e' silent like in French.
  • Nasalizing the 'en' too much like in French.
  • Over-rolling the 'r' (it only needs a single flick of the tongue).

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

Easy to recognize due to the English cognate, but requires context to understand the specific domain.

Schreiben 4/5

Requires care with prepositions and avoiding English-style 'per' over-usage.

Sprechen 4/5

Needs correct stress placement and fluid use in social/professional nuances.

Hören 3/5

Clearly articulated in most registers, though fast speech can blend the 'ns' sound.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

Pagare Bilancia Mancare Perdere Rimediare

Als Nächstes lernen

Controbilanciare Indennizzare Equilibrare Scompensare Rivendicare

Fortgeschritten

Ponderare Commisurare Equiparare Scomputare Conguagliare

Wichtige Grammatik

First Conjugation Verbs (-are)

Io compens-o, Tu compens-i, Lui/Lei compens-a.

Transitive vs Intransitive

Compensare is transitive: 'Compensare il danno' (No preposition needed).

Reflexive Pronouns

I due fattori si compensano (They balance each other).

Subjunctive Mood for Necessity

È necessario che lui compensi il debito.

Past Participle as Adjective

Un danno non compensato (An uncompensated damage).

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

Io compenso il mio amico con un regalo.

I compensate my friend with a gift.

Present tense, first person singular.

2

Tu compensi il tempo perso?

Do you make up for the lost time?

Question in the second person singular.

3

Lui compensa l'errore con un sorriso.

He makes up for the mistake with a smile.

Third person singular with 'con'.

4

Noi compensiamo il lavoro domani.

We will make up for the work tomorrow.

First person plural, present used for near future.

5

Voi compensate sempre i vostri amici.

You always compensate your friends.

Second person plural with the adverb 'sempre'.

6

Loro compensano la mancanza di pane con la pasta.

They make up for the lack of bread with pasta.

Third person plural.

7

Voglio compensare questo problema.

I want to compensate for this problem.

Modal verb 'volere' followed by the infinitive.

8

È importante compensare gli altri.

It is important to compensate others.

Impersonal expression 'È importante' + infinitive.

1

Ho lavorato molto per compensare il ritardo di ieri.

I worked a lot to make up for yesterday's delay.

Passato prossimo used to describe a completed action.

2

Puoi compensare la cena se io pago il cinema.

You can make up for the dinner if I pay for the cinema.

Conditional logic in a simple sentence.

3

Il caffè compensa la stanchezza della mattina.

Coffee makes up for the morning tiredness.

Subject-verb-object structure.

4

Dobbiamo compensare le ore di sonno perse nel weekend.

We must make up for the hours of sleep lost over the weekend.

Modal verb 'dovere' + infinitive.

5

Lei ha compensato il suo errore con un'ottima torta.

She made up for her mistake with an excellent cake.

Passato prossimo with 'con'.

6

L'azienda compensa i dipendenti per le ore extra.

The company compensates employees for extra hours.

Present tense describing a general policy.

7

Cerco di compensare la mancanza di sole con le vitamine.

I try to make up for the lack of sun with vitamins.

First person singular 'cerco di' + infinitive.

8

Il bel tempo compensa il lungo viaggio in auto.

The beautiful weather makes up for the long car journey.

Abstract subject 'il bel tempo'.

1

La sua simpatia compensa ampiamente la sua timidezza iniziale.

His friendliness more than makes up for his initial shyness.

Use of the adverb 'ampiamente' to add nuance.

2

Abbiamo deciso di compensare il danno offrendo uno sconto.

We decided to compensate for the damage by offering a discount.

Gerund phrase 'offrendo' explaining the method.

3

È difficile compensare la perdita di un vecchio amico.

It is difficult to make up for the loss of an old friend.

Impersonal construction with an abstract object.

4

Se non studi oggi, dovrai compensare studiando il doppio domani.

If you don't study today, you will have to make up for it by studying twice as much tomorrow.

Future tense 'dovrai' and gerund 'studiando'.

5

Il sapore forte del formaggio compensa la dolcezza del miele.

The strong taste of the cheese balances the sweetness of the honey.

Verbs of sensory experience.

6

Molte persone usano lo sport per compensare lo stress del lavoro.

Many people use sport to make up for work stress.

Purpose clause with 'per'.

7

Non basta una scusa per compensare un comportamento così sgarbato.

An apology is not enough to make up for such rude behavior.

Negative construction 'Non basta'.

8

Il successo del progetto ha compensato tutti i nostri sacrifici.

The success of the project made up for all our sacrifices.

Passato prossimo with a collective subject.

1

Le due forze si compensano perfettamente, mantenendo l'oggetto in equilibrio.

The two forces perfectly balance each other out, keeping the object in equilibrium.

Reflexive form 'si compensano' for mutual action.

2

L'azienda deve compensare i costi di produzione con un aumento dei prezzi.

The company must offset production costs with a price increase.

Economic context with 'deve' and 'con'.

3

I benefici a lungo termine compensano i rischi immediati dell'investimento.

The long-term benefits outweigh the immediate risks of the investment.

Comparison of abstract business concepts.

4

Per compensare l'inflazione, il governo ha approvato nuovi sussidi.

To compensate for inflation, the government approved new subsidies.

Infinitive of purpose at the start of the sentence.

5

La qualità del servizio riesce a compensare il prezzo leggermente elevato.

The quality of the service manages to make up for the slightly high price.

Phrase 'riesce a' + infinitive.

6

In questo ecosistema, la pioggia abbondante compensa l'aridità del suolo.

In this ecosystem, the abundant rain makes up for the soil's aridity.

Scientific/Environmental context.

7

Spero che il premio possa compensare la tua delusione per la sconfitta.

I hope the prize can make up for your disappointment over the defeat.

Subjunctive mood 'possa' after 'spero che'.

8

L'atleta ha cercato di compensare la mancanza di tecnica con la forza fisica.

The athlete tried to make up for the lack of technique with physical strength.

Historical past 'ha cercato' with 'mancanza di'.

1

Bisogna chiedersi se il progresso tecnologico possa davvero compensare l'alienazione sociale.

One must wonder if technological progress can truly compensate for social alienation.

Complex philosophical question using 'Bisogna' and subjunctive.

2

Il sistema di welfare mira a compensare le disuguaglianze nate dal mercato libero.

The welfare system aims to compensate for the inequalities arising from the free market.

Formal academic vocabulary ('mira a', 'disuguaglianze').

3

Nonostante le critiche, la sua visione innovativa compensa le lacune gestionali.

Despite the criticism, his innovative vision makes up for the management gaps.

Concessive clause with 'Nonostante'.

4

Le aziende sono ora obbligate a compensare le proprie emissioni di CO2 tramite progetti di riforestazione.

Companies are now obliged to offset their CO2 emissions through reforestation projects.

Passive-like construction 'sono obbligate a'.

5

In poesia, il ritmo può compensare l'assenza di rime baciate, creando un'armonia diversa.

In poetry, rhythm can make up for the absence of rhyming couplets, creating a different harmony.

Literary analysis context.

6

L'esperienza accumulata negli anni le ha permesso di compensare il calo dei riflessi fisici.

The experience accumulated over the years allowed her to compensate for the decline in physical reflexes.

Use of the past participle as an adjective ('accumulata').

7

Si tenta di compensare il deficit pubblico attraverso un inasprimento della pressione fiscale.

An attempt is made to compensate for the public deficit through a tightening of fiscal pressure.

Si passivante ('Si tenta') for a formal, impersonal tone.

8

L'autore usa l'ironia per compensare la tragicità degli eventi narrati nel romanzo.

The author uses irony to offset the tragedy of the events narrated in the novel.

Analysis of literary devices.

1

La giurisprudenza recente tende a compensare il danno biologico con criteri più elastici e soggettivi.

Recent jurisprudence tends to compensate for biological damage using more flexible and subjective criteria.

Highly specialized legal terminology.

2

In un sistema termodinamico chiuso, ogni variazione di energia deve essere compensata da un lavoro esterno.

In a closed thermodynamic system, every energy variation must be compensated by external work.

Scientific precision in the passive voice.

3

Resta da vedere se l'entusiasmo della base potrà compensare la frammentazione dei vertici del partito.

It remains to be seen whether the enthusiasm of the grassroots can offset the fragmentation of the party leadership.

Sophisticated political commentary structure 'Resta da vedere se'.

4

L'artista cerca di compensare l'effimerità dell'esistenza attraverso l'eternità della forma marmorea.

The artist seeks to compensate for the ephemerality of existence through the eternity of the marble form.

Abstract philosophical concepts and elevated vocabulary.

5

La politica monetaria espansiva non è riuscita a compensare lo shock dal lato dell'offerta causato dalla crisi.

The expansive monetary policy failed to offset the supply-side shock caused by the crisis.

Advanced economic analysis.

6

Occorre un intervento strutturale che compensi la carenza di infrastrutture nelle zone periferiche.

A structural intervention is needed that compensates for the lack of infrastructure in peripheral areas.

Subjunctive mood 'compensi' in a relative clause expressing necessity.

7

Il virtuosismo tecnico del pianista non bastava a compensare una certa aridità interpretativa.

The pianist's technical virtuosity was not enough to make up for a certain interpretive dryness.

Nuanced artistic criticism using the imperfect tense.

8

Le neuroscienze studiano come il cervello possa compensare lesioni focali attraverso la plasticità sinaptica.

Neurosciences study how the brain can compensate for focal lesions through synaptic plasticity.

Advanced scientific terminology.

Häufige Kollokationen

Compensare le perdite
Compensare le emissioni
Compensare gli straordinari
Compensare un errore
Compensare la mancanza
Compensare il deficit
Compensare i danni
Compensare lo sforzo
Compensare la differenza
Compensare i rischi

Häufige Phrasen

Compensare con

— To make up for something using a specific tool or action.

Compensa la sua bassa statura con un grande carisma.

Farsi compensare

— To ensure one gets paid or rewarded for a service.

Si fa compensare profumatamente per le sue consulenze.

Compensare il tempo

— To recover or make up for lost time.

Dobbiamo correre per compensare il tempo perso nel traffico.

Cercare di compensare

— To attempt to restore balance, often with difficulty.

Cerca di compensare il vuoto affettivo con lo shopping.

Compensare ampiamente

— To more than make up for something.

La bellezza del panorama compensa ampiamente la fatica della salita.

Compensare le spese

— To cover the costs incurred.

I guadagni della serata sono bastati a compensare le spese.

Si compensano a vicenda

— They balance each other out (reciprocal).

In una coppia, i caratteri spesso si compensano a vicenda.

Compensare la lacuna

— To fill a gap in knowledge or resources.

Il corso intensivo serve a compensare la lacuna linguistica.

Meccanismo di compensazione

— A psychological or biological process to restore balance.

Il corpo ha attivato un meccanismo di compensazione per il freddo.

Compensare il danno

— To make amends for harm caused.

Nulla può compensare il danno d'immagine subito dall'azienda.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

compensare vs Rimborsare

Rimborsare is strictly giving money back; compensare is balancing a situation with anything equivalent.

compensare vs Rimediare

Rimediare is fixing a specific problem; compensare is providing a counterweight to a loss.

compensare vs Ricompensare

Ricompensare is to reward someone for a good deed; compensare is to balance a deficit or loss.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Compensare fischio per fiasco"

— To mistakenly try to balance something with an unrelated or wrong item.

Ha cercato di compensare la sua maleducazione con i soldi, ma ha scambiato fischio per fiasco.

Informal
"Mettere un tappo per compensare una falla"

— To use a temporary or inadequate fix to make up for a large problem.

Assumere un nuovo stagista è solo un tappo per compensare la falla del dipartimento.

Metaphorical
"Compensare il vuoto"

— To try to fill an emotional or existential lack with something else.

Molti compensano il vuoto interiore con il potere.

Psychological
"Far quadrare i conti"

— Often used alongside compensare to mean making things balance out financially or logically.

Dobbiamo compensare le uscite per far quadrare i conti.

Common
"Pesare sulla bilancia"

— To be the factor that needs compensation.

La sua assenza peserà sulla bilancia, dovremo compensare in qualche modo.

Figurative
"Rendere pan per focaccia"

— While usually meaning 'tit for tat,' it is the 'negative' version of compensating a wrong.

Non voleva compensare l'offesa, voleva rendere pan per focaccia.

Idiomatic
"Mettere una pezza"

— To put a patch on something; to compensate for a flaw poorly.

Hanno messo una pezza per compensare l'errore del software.

Informal
"Restituire il favore"

— To compensate a good deed with another.

Mi hai aiutato molto, voglio restituire il favore per compensare il tuo tempo.

Neutral
"Bilanciare i pesi"

— To ensure fairness by compensating the weaker side.

Il moderatore deve compensare i tempi per bilanciare i pesi del dibattito.

Formal
"Pagare il fio"

— To pay the price; the opposite of being compensated for an effort.

Ha dovuto pagare il fio per non aver compensato i suoi errori passati.

Literary

Leicht verwechselbar

compensare vs Compenso

Looks like the verb.

Compenso is the noun for a fee or payment; compensare is the verb for the action of balancing.

Ho ricevuto un compenso per compensare il tempo perso.

compensare vs Compensazione

Abstract noun.

The process of reaching equilibrium, often used in legal or technical contexts.

La compensazione dei crediti è una procedura bancaria.

compensare vs Scompensare

Antonym.

To throw out of balance, often used for health (heart failure) or psychology.

Lo stress improvviso lo ha scompensato.

compensare vs Controbilanciare

Synonym.

More formal and implies two active, opposing forces balancing each other.

Dobbiamo controbilanciare la pressione della concorrenza.

compensare vs Equilibrare

Synonym.

Focuses on the state of being level (static); compensare focuses on the corrective action (dynamic).

Bisogna equilibrare i pesi sulla bilancia.

Satzmuster

A1

Io compenso [Object] con [Object].

Io compenso l'errore con un fiore.

A2

Devo compensare il tempo [Adjective].

Devo compensare il tempo perso.

B1

[Subject] compensa la mancanza di [Noun].

La velocità compensa la mancanza di forza.

B2

Si devono compensare le [Noun] con [Noun].

Si devono compensare le uscite con nuove entrate.

C1

Nonostante [Fact], [Subject] compensa [Object].

Nonostante la crisi, l'export compensa il calo interno.

C1

È fondamentale che [Subject] compensi [Object].

È fondamentale che l'azienda compensi i danni.

C2

[Abstract Noun] mira a compensare [Abstract Noun].

La giustizia sociale mira a compensare le contingenze storiche.

C2

Resta da vedere come [Subject] possa compensare [Object].

Resta da vedere come il mercato possa compensare lo shock.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Verben

Adjektive

Verwandt

So verwendest du es

frequency

High in professional and news contexts; medium in daily speech.

Häufige Fehler
  • Compensare per il ritardo. Compensare il ritardo.

    In Italian, 'compensare' is primarily a transitive verb. The 'per' is redundant and stems from a literal translation of the English 'compensate for'.

  • Il mio stipendio è un buon compenso. Il mio stipendio è buono.

    'Compenso' usually refers to a specific fee or reward, while 'stipendio' is the fixed monthly wage. Using 'compenso' for your regular salary is slightly unnatural.

  • Ho ricompensato il danno. Ho compensato il danno.

    'Ricompensare' means to reward someone for a good action. 'Compensare' is the correct verb for balancing out a negative event like a 'danno' (damage).

  • La perdita si è compensata con la vincita. La perdita è stata compensata dalla vincita.

    While 'compensarsi' exists, it is used when two things balance each other mutually. If one thing balances another, the passive 'essere compensato da' is more precise.

  • Dobbiamo rimediare il tempo perso. Dobbiamo compensare il tempo perso.

    'Rimediare' usually takes 'a' (rimediare a un errore). When talking specifically about 'making up' for lost time, 'compensare' is the more standard choice.

Tipps

Direct Object

Always try to use 'compensare' as a transitive verb. Instead of saying 'He compensated for the mistake,' say 'Lui ha compensato l'errore.' This sounds much more native and sophisticated than using 'per' after the verb.

Compenso vs Stipendio

Distinguish between 'compenso' (a fee or reward) and 'stipendio' (a regular salary). Use 'compenso' when talking about a specific payment for a one-off task or to balance a specific effort.

Business Italian

In a professional setting, use 'compensare gli straordinari' to talk about paying for overtime. This is a very common phrase in Italian labor law and workplace discussions.

Pronunciation

Ensure the 's' in 'compensare' is voiceless (like in 'sun'). It is easy for English speakers to make it sound like a 'z' because of the 'n' that precedes it, but in Italian, it remains sharp.

Reflexive Clarity

Use 'compensarsi' when describing two elements that naturally balance each other. This is highly effective in analytical writing, such as 'I fattori demografici ed economici si compensano'.

Farsi Perdonare

For social situations like being late or making a small mistake, 'farsi perdonare' is often more natural than 'compensare.' Use it to sound warmer and more relatable in casual conversations.

Engineering Context

If you work in a technical field, remember that 'compensare' is used for any adjustment made to maintain a steady state, like 'compensare la pressione dell'olio' in an engine.

Legal Precision

In legal contexts, 'compensazione' is a specific term for canceling out mutual debts. If you are discussing a legal dispute, using 'compensare' shows a high level of technical proficiency.

Sustainability

When discussing green initiatives, 'compensare le emissioni' is the standard phrase. It is a great way to talk about modern environmental responsibility in Italian.

Etymological Link

Remember that 'compensare' and 'pensare' share a root. Just as you weigh ideas when you think, you weigh things together when you compensate. This connection can help you remember the meaning of balance.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'Compass' (similar sound) that helps you find your way back to the center or balance. When you 'com-pen-sate', you are finding the center again.

Visuelle Assoziation

Visualize a scale (bilancia). One side is empty (the loss), and you are putting a 'pen' (from com-PEN-sare) on the other side to make it level.

Word Web

Soldi Equilibrio Lavoro Perdita Bilancia Giustizia Danno Rimedio

Herausforderung

Try to use 'compensare' three times today: once for a physical balance, once for a work situation, and once for a personal feeling.

Wortherkunft

From the Latin verb 'compensare', which is the frequentative form of 'compendere'.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To weigh one thing against another (cum 'with/together' + pensare 'to weigh').

Romance (Italic)

Kultureller Kontext

Avoid using 'compensare' in a way that sounds like you are trying to 'buy' someone's forgiveness for a very serious moral wrong, as it can sound dismissive.

English speakers often use 'compensate' primarily for money or physics. Italian speakers use 'compensare' more broadly in daily social interactions to mean 'making up for' anything.

Il Codice Civile Italiano (Art. 1241) defines legal 'compensazione'. Dante Alighieri uses concepts of balance and retribution in the 'Divine Comedy'. Modern Italian pop songs often use the word to describe balancing love and pain.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Workplace

  • Compensare gli straordinari
  • Compensazione salariale
  • Compensare la mancanza di personale
  • Compenso professionale

Economy/Finance

  • Compensare il debito
  • Compensare le perdite in borsa
  • Meccanismo di compensazione fiscale
  • Compensare l'inflazione

Personal Relationships

  • Compensare un'assenza
  • Compensare un torto
  • Farsi compensare il disturbo
  • Compensare con l'affetto

Science/Technology

  • Compensare la pressione
  • Compensare l'errore di misura
  • Vaso di compensazione
  • Compensare la temperatura

Law

  • Compensare le spese legali
  • Compensazione dei crediti
  • Compensare il danno morale
  • Atto di compensazione

Gesprächseinstiege

"Come pensi di compensare il tempo che abbiamo perso oggi?"

"Credi che un aumento di stipendio possa davvero compensare lo stress di questo lavoro?"

"In cucina, cosa usi per compensare un piatto troppo salato?"

"Pensi che le aziende facciano abbastanza per compensare le loro emissioni di carbonio?"

"Qual è stata la volta in cui hai dovuto compensare un errore davvero grande?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Rifletti su una tua debolezza. In che modo cerchi di compensarla con i tuoi punti di forza?

Descrivi una situazione in cui qualcuno ha cercato di compensare un torto fatto a te. È stato sufficiente?

Pensi che nella vita tutto si compensi alla fine, o credi che esistano squilibri permanenti?

Come gestisci il tuo tempo per compensare i momenti di pigrizia con quelli di produttività?

Quali sono le misure che il tuo paese dovrebbe adottare per compensare le disuguaglianze sociali?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, 'compensare' is primarily a transitive verb in Italian. You can say 'compensare il danno' directly. However, you can use 'con' to specify the means of compensation, such as 'compensare il danno con un pagamento'. Using 'per' (compensare per il danno) is technically correct but often considered a calque of English.

While they look similar, 'compensare' is about balancing a loss or a deficit (e.g., 'compensare le perdite'). 'Ricompensare' is about rewarding someone for a positive action or merit (e.g., 'ricompensare un eroe'). Use 'compensare' for restoration and 'ricompensare' for recognition.

Yes, it is very common. If you forget a friend's birthday, you can say 'Voglio compensare la mia dimenticanza portandoti a cena'. It shows you are trying to restore the social balance that was damaged by your forgetfulness.

No, 'stipendio' is a regular monthly salary from an employer. 'Un compenso' is more general and often refers to a one-time fee or payment for a specific professional service or 'lavoretto' (small job).

It is the reflexive form used when two things naturally balance each other out. For example, 'I suoi pregi e i suoi difetti si compensano' means 'His strengths and weaknesses balance each other out' to create a neutral or balanced result.

It takes 'avere' in the active voice: 'Ho compensato il debito'. In the passive voice, it takes 'essere': 'Il debito è stato compensato'. In the reflexive form, it always takes 'essere': 'Si sono compensati'.

Yes, extensively. It describes technical adjustments, such as 'compensare la dilatazione termica' (compensating for thermal expansion) or 'compensare l'errore sistematico' (compensating for systematic error) in measurements.

Yes, both come from the Latin 'pendere' (to weigh). 'Compensare' is weighing together, and 'pensare' is weighing ideas in your head. It's a fascinating connection between physical and mental balance!

Absolutely. The common term in Italian for carbon offsetting is 'compensazione delle emissioni di CO2'. Companies use the verb 'compensare' to describe these environmental activities.

Very common. Journalists use it to talk about 'misure per compensare l'inflazione' (measures to offset inflation) or 'compensare il calo delle nascite' (compensating for the decline in births) in demographic reports.

Teste dich selbst 190 Fragen

writing

Scrivi una frase usando 'compensare' per parlare di lavoro straordinario.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Spiega come compensi la mancanza di tempo per studiare.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Scrivi una frase usando 'si compensano' per descrivere una coppia.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Usa 'compensare' in una frase formale sull'ambiente.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Cosa faresti per compensare un ritardo a un appuntamento importante?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Scrivi una frase usando il congiuntivo di 'compensare'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Descrivi come il caffè compensa la tua stanchezza.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Scrivi una frase usando 'compensare' in ambito economico.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Usa 'compensare' per descrivere il sapore di un piatto.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Scrivi una breve riflessione sull'importanza di compensare i propri errori.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Come può un'azienda compensare un cliente insoddisfatto?

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writing

Scrivi una frase con 'compensare' e 'nonostante'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Usa 'compensare' per parlare di sport.

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writing

Scrivi una frase usando 'compensare' in ambito tecnico.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Cosa significa per te 'compensare il vuoto'?

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writing

Scrivi una frase con 'compensare' e 'ampiamente'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Usa 'compensare' per parlare di una perdita finanziaria.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Scrivi una frase su come la tecnologia compensa le disabilità.

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writing

Usa 'compensare' in una frase ipotetica.

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writing

Scrivi una frase con 'compensare' e 'giustizia'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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speaking

Pronuncia correttamente la parola 'compensare' sottolineando l'accento.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Racconta una volta in cui hai dovuto compensare un errore al lavoro.

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speaking

Spiega a un amico perché il caffè compensa la tua stanchezza.

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speaking

Discuti l'importanza di compensare le emissioni di carbonio.

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speaking

Come descriveresti il concetto di 'compensazione' a un bambino?

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speaking

Cosa diresti per scusarti e compensare un ritardo?

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speaking

Pensi che i soldi possano compensare la mancanza di tempo libero?

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speaking

Quali qualità compensano la mancanza di talento in uno sportivo?

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speaking

Descrivi un piatto dove due sapori si compensano.

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speaking

Come si può compensare la solitudine in una grande città?

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speaking

Pensi che la tecnologia compensi davvero la mancanza di contatto umano?

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speaking

Spiega il termine 'compensare le spese' in un contesto legale.

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speaking

Usa 'compensare' per descrivere una situazione climatica.

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speaking

Cosa compensa la fatica di imparare una lingua straniera?

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speaking

Come compensi una giornata di pioggia durante le vacanze?

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speaking

Pensi che le leggi debbano compensare le disuguaglianze di nascita?

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speaking

Qual è il modo migliore per compensare un favore ricevuto?

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speaking

Cosa compensa la mancanza di sole nei paesi del nord?

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speaking

Discuti come l'ironia compensa la tragedia in letteratura.

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speaking

Come compensi lo stress accumulato durante la settimana?

Read this aloud:

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi la frase: 'Dobbiamo compensare il tempo perso.'

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listening

Identifica il verbo nella frase: 'Il successo compensa ogni fatica.'

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi: 'Le due forze si compensano.'

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi: 'Voglio compensare il mio errore.'

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listening

Identifica il sostantivo: 'Riceverai un compenso adeguato.'

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi: 'Compensare le emissioni è un dovere.'

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi: 'L'acidità si compensa con lo zucchero.'

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi: 'Bisogna compensare il deficit pubblico.'

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi: 'Il giudice ha compensato le spese.'

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi: 'Il talento compensa la mancanza di studi.'

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi: 'Si devono compensare gli sforzi fatti.'

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi: 'L'azienda compensa i danni subiti.'

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi: 'Tutto si compensa alla fine.'

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi: 'Vogliamo compensare la tua assenza.'

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listening

Ascolta e scrivi: 'Il sapore compensa la brutta presentazione.'

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/ 190 correct

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