Signification
To work hard or start acting productively.
Contexte culturel
The phrase reflects the 'cultura del lavoro' (work culture) that emerged after WWII, emphasizing individual initiative in rebuilding the nation. In regions like Lombardy and Veneto, 'darsi da fare' is almost a social requirement, linked to the high density of productive industries. While the pace may be different, the phrase is often used in the context of 'l'arte di arrangiarsi' (the art of making do), showing resourcefulness in difficult economic conditions. Using this phrase about yourself in an interview is seen as a sign of humility and reliability, rather than arrogance.
Use it as a compliment
If you want to impress an Italian, tell them 'Ti dai molto da fare!' It's a great way to acknowledge their hard work.
Watch the auxiliary
Always use 'essere' in the past. 'Mi sono dato da fare' is correct. 'Mi ho dato da fare' is a common mistake for English speakers.
Signification
To work hard or start acting productively.
Use it as a compliment
If you want to impress an Italian, tell them 'Ti dai molto da fare!' It's a great way to acknowledge their hard work.
Watch the auxiliary
Always use 'essere' in the past. 'Mi sono dato da fare' is correct. 'Mi ho dato da fare' is a common mistake for English speakers.
The 'Datti' shortcut
Use 'Datti da fare!' as a quick, energetic way to tell someone to stop procrastinating.
Teste-toi
Complete the sentence with the correct form of 'darsi da fare'.
Noi ___ ___ ___ fare per finire il lavoro in tempo.
The subject is 'Noi', so we need the reflexive pronoun 'ci' and the first-person plural of 'dare' (diamo).
Which sentence is grammatically correct in the past tense?
Choose the correct option:
Reflexive verbs use 'essere' and the past participle must agree with the subject (Maria = data).
Match the situation with the most appropriate use of the phrase.
Your friend is lazy and has an exam tomorrow. What do you say?
The imperative form for 'tu' is 'datti' (dare + ti).
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Il giardino è un disastro!' B: 'Hai ragione, ___ ___ ___ fare questo pomeriggio.'
The speaker is expressing a future obligation to themselves ('I must get busy').
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Darsi da Fare vs. Lavorare
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesNoi ___ ___ ___ fare per finire il lavoro in tempo.
The subject is 'Noi', so we need the reflexive pronoun 'ci' and the first-person plural of 'dare' (diamo).
Choose the correct option:
Reflexive verbs use 'essere' and the past participle must agree with the subject (Maria = data).
Your friend is lazy and has an exam tomorrow. What do you say?
The imperative form for 'tu' is 'datti' (dare + ti).
A: 'Il giardino è un disastro!' B: 'Hai ragione, ___ ___ ___ fare questo pomeriggio.'
The speaker is expressing a future obligation to themselves ('I must get busy').
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss, your friends, or your parents. It's very versatile.
Yes! If you are working hard on a painting or learning a new instrument, you can say 'Mi do da fare con il piano.'
'Lavorare sodo' is just 'to work hard.' 'Darsi da fare' implies more initiative and 'getting busy' with a task.
If you are male: 'Mi sono dato da fare.' If you are female: 'Mi sono data da fare.'
It depends on the tone. It can be an encouraging 'Go for it!' or a slightly annoyed 'Get to work!'
Usually, it's positive. However, you can say 'Non si dà mai da fare' to describe someone lazy.
No, it is always 'da fare'. Changing it to 'di' would be incorrect.
Not directly, but you can talk about 'il darsi da fare' as a concept (the act of working hard).
Yes, if you are training hard at the gym, you can say 'Mi do da fare in palestra.'
Forgetting the reflexive pronoun 'mi/ti/si' and just saying 'dare da fare'.
Expressions liées
rimoccarsi le maniche
synonymTo roll up one's sleeves.
darci dentro
similarTo go at it hard / to hit it hard.
stare con le mani in mano
contrastTo sit idly / to do nothing.
adoperarsi
specialized formTo exert oneself / to take steps.
