A2 noun 2 min de lecture

pericolo

Entraîne-toi Notes et astuces

Overview

The Italian word 'pericolo' is a masculine noun that directly translates to 'danger', 'peril', or 'risk' in English. It refers to the possibility of harm, injury, loss, or death. The term is widely used in various contexts, from everyday situations to more formal or technical discussions.

In general usage, 'pericolo' can describe a wide range of hazardous circumstances. For instance, one might speak of 'un pericolo stradale' (a road hazard), 'pericolo di incendio' (risk of fire), or 'pericolo di crollo' (danger of collapse). It emphasizes the potential for something negative to occur, rather than the negative event itself having already happened. This distinction is important, as it often prompts precautionary measures or warnings.

The word is often encountered in public safety signage and warnings. For example, 'Pericolo! Alta tensione' (Danger! High voltage) or 'Pericolo di morte' (Danger of death) are common phrases used to alert individuals to extreme risks. In these contexts, 'pericolo' serves as a clear and concise indicator of a significant threat.

Furthermore, 'pericolo' can be used more abstractly to describe risks or threats that are not immediately physical. For example, one might discuss 'il pericolo di un fallimento economico' (the risk of economic failure) or 'il pericolo di un conflitto internazionale' (the danger of an international conflict). In these cases, the harm is not necessarily bodily but can involve significant negative consequences.

Several common phrases and expressions incorporate 'pericolo'. 'Mettere in pericolo' means 'to put in danger' or 'to jeopardize', while 'correre un pericolo' means 'to run a risk' or 'to be in danger'. 'Fuori pericolo' indicates that a person or situation is 'out of danger'.

Understanding 'pericolo' is fundamental for grasping safety warnings, news reports, and even casual conversations in Italian, as it is a core concept for expressing the presence of threats and hazards.

Exemples

1

There is a danger of falling.

2

He ran a great danger.

Collocations courantes

correre un pericolo
grave pericolo
fuori pericolo
pericolo scampato

Souvent confondu avec

pericolo vs w

80+ WORDS

Modèles grammaticaux

p1 p2 p3

Comment l'utiliser

'Pericolo' is a masculine noun in Italian, meaning 'danger,' 'peril,' or 'risk.' It is a very common word and can be used in a wide range of contexts, from literal physical threats to more abstract or metaphorical risks. For example, one might say 'Il pericolo è scampato' (The danger is averted) after a narrow escape, or 'C'è pericolo di pioggia' (There's a risk of rain) when discussing weather. It's often followed by the preposition 'di' (of) when specifying the nature of the danger, e.g., 'pericolo di vita' (danger to life) or 'pericolo di incendio' (risk of fire). The plural form is 'pericoli.' It can also be used in exclamations to warn others, such as 'Attenzione, pericolo!' (Caution, danger!). Understanding the nuances of its usage, especially with prepositions, is key to using it naturally in Italian conversation. The word carries a strong sense of potential negative consequences.

Erreurs courantes

A common mistake might be confusing 'pericolo' with words that sound somewhat similar but have different meanings, such as 'piccolo' (small) or 'perla' (pearl). It's important to remember the '-colo' ending which is present in other Italian words related to abstract concepts or states.

Astuces

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Use with caution

While 'pericolo' directly translates to 'danger' or 'peril,' its usage often implies a more immediate or severe threat than just 'risk.' Consider the context carefully.

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Related terms

Other words that convey similar meanings but with slight nuances include 'rischio' (risk, chance of something negative happening), 'minaccia' (threat, something that portends harm), and 'insidia' (snare, trap, hidden danger).

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Common phrases

You'll often hear 'in pericolo' (in danger), 'fuori pericolo' (out of danger), and 'correre un pericolo' (to run a danger, to be in danger).

Origine du mot

Latin

Contexte culturel

In Italy, the concept of 'pericolo' (danger) is deeply embedded in everyday language and cultural understanding. Italians tend to be quite expressive about potential risks, often using phrases like 'stare attenti' (to be careful) or 'c'è pericolo' (there is danger) in various situations. This awareness of danger can be seen in their approach to safety, whether it's navigating busy city streets, discussing health concerns, or even in the way they cook and handle food. There's a strong emphasis on caution and prevention, often passed down through generations. Furthermore, 'pericolo' can also carry a more metaphorical weight, referring to risks in relationships, financial situations, or social interactions, where the 'harm' might not be physical but emotional or reputational. The dramatic nature of Italian communication often amplifies the perception and discussion of potential perils, making it a prominent theme in both casual conversation and more serious discourse.

Astuce mémo

Associate 'pericolo' with 'peril' in English, as they sound similar and both refer to danger.

Teste-toi

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