Signification
To lead a miserable existence.
Contexte culturel
Italians often use this to bond over shared struggles. Used frequently in high-stress work environments like Milan. Used with more emotional intensity and expressive gestures. Commonly used in text messages and social media to complain about school.
Use with caution
Don't use this with people you don't know well; it's very personal.
Add context
Always follow it with the reason why (e.g., '...perché lavoro troppo').
Signification
To lead a miserable existence.
Use with caution
Don't use this with people you don't know well; it's very personal.
Add context
Always follow it with the reason why (e.g., '...perché lavoro troppo').
Venting is okay
In Italy, it's normal to complain about life to friends.
Teste-toi
Complete the sentence with the correct verb.
Ultimamente ____ una vita da cani.
The idiom is 'fare una vita da cani', so 'faccio' is the correct conjugation.
Which of these is the correct idiom?
Select the correct phrase:
The idiom specifically uses 'cani' (dogs).
Complete the dialogue.
A: Come va? B: ____, lavoro troppo.
The context 'lavoro troppo' (I work too much) matches the meaning of the idiom.
Match the situation to the correct response.
Your friend asks why you are always tired.
This explains the exhaustion.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesUltimamente ____ una vita da cani.
The idiom is 'fare una vita da cani', so 'faccio' is the correct conjugation.
Select the correct phrase:
The idiom specifically uses 'cani' (dogs).
A: Come va? B: ____, lavoro troppo.
The context 'lavoro troppo' (I work too much) matches the meaning of the idiom.
Your friend asks why you are always tired.
This explains the exhaustion.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
12 questionsNo, it's for humans! If your dog is having a hard time, use different words.
Not rude, just informal. Don't use it with your boss.
No, always 'da cani'.
Yes, very common in daily life.
It still works, as it implies a miserable state.
Only if it's a very close friend.
The phrase is fixed.
It can, but it usually refers to stress/exhaustion.
No, that doesn't exist.
Yes, often in comedies or dramas.
Show empathy: 'Mi dispiace!' (I'm sorry!)
No, it's used everywhere in Italy.
Expressions liées
essere alla frutta
similarTo be at the end of one's rope.
non poterne più
builds onTo be unable to take it anymore.
essere al verde
similarTo be broke.
avere l'acqua alla gola
similarTo be in deep trouble.
