At the A1 level, learners are introduced to basic verbs. 'Girare' might be encountered in simple commands like 'gira!' (turn!) or in very basic descriptions of movement, such as 'la ruota gira' (the wheel turns). The focus is on recognizing the sound and associating it with a very concrete action, often demonstrated visually. Sentences will be short and direct, with minimal grammatical complexity. Understanding will rely heavily on context and visual aids. It's about grasping the fundamental idea of movement in a circular fashion or a simple turn.
For A2 learners, 'girare' becomes more functional. They will start using it in simple directions ('gira a destra'), describing everyday actions ('mi giro per vedere'), or talking about common objects that spin ('il ventilatore gira'). Learners will be able to conjugate the verb in the present tense and understand its use with common prepositions like 'a' and 'per'. Sentences will still be relatively simple, but will allow for more descriptive content. The concept of 'turning around' or 'going around' becomes more accessible.
At the B1 level, learners can use 'girare' more flexibly and understand its nuances. They can employ it in more complex sentences, including the past tenses and future. They will also begin to encounter and use figurative meanings, such as 'girare le spalle' (to turn one's back) or 'mi gira la testa' (my head is spinning). The distinction between 'girare', 'svoltare', and 'voltare' starts to become clearer, allowing for more precise expression. Learners can describe a wider range of movements and situations involving rotation or turning.
B2 learners can handle 'girare' in a variety of contexts, including more abstract or idiomatic expressions. They can use it confidently in narrative tenses (past historic, imperfect subjunctive) and understand its role in complex sentence structures. They will be aware of its less common meanings, such as circulation of money or news ('questi soldi girano poco'). The ability to differentiate 'girare' from similar verbs like 'ruotare' and 'circolare' will be well-developed, enabling more sophisticated language use.
C1 learners will use 'girare' with a high degree of fluency and accuracy. They can understand and produce nuanced meanings, including subtle figurative uses and less common idiomatic expressions. They will be adept at choosing the most appropriate verb among 'girare', 'voltare', 'svoltare', 'ruotare', and 'circolare' based on the specific context and desired emphasis. Their command of 'girare' will contribute to sophisticated and natural-sounding Italian.
At the C2 level, 'girare' is fully integrated into the learner's vocabulary. They can recognize and employ its most subtle meanings, including highly specific or archaic uses if encountered. They have an intuitive grasp of its idiomatic potential and can use it to convey complex ideas with precision and elegance. Their understanding and application of 'girare' will be indistinguishable from that of a native speaker.

girare 30초 만에

  • Core meaning: To spin, turn, or revolve.
  • Common uses: Describing physical movement, giving directions.
  • Figurative uses: Beating around the bush, feeling dizzy.
  • Key takeaway: Essential for describing circular motion and changes in direction.
Core Meaning
To move in a circular direction or to turn around. It can describe the physical movement of an object or person, or a change in direction.
Everyday Usage
You'll hear 'girare' used constantly in daily Italian life. For example, when giving directions, asking someone to turn their head, or describing how something spins. It's a fundamental verb for describing motion and changes in orientation.
Beyond Physical Movement
'Girare' can also be used metaphorically, like 'girare le spalle' (to turn one's back) which means to ignore someone, or 'girare intorno a un problema' (to beat around the bush). It can even refer to things being circulated, like money or news.
Context is Key
The exact nuance of 'girare' depends heavily on the context. Is it a simple turn? A full rotation? A change in focus? Pay attention to the surrounding words and the situation to understand the precise meaning.

La ruota della bicicletta continua a girare.

The bicycle wheel continues to spin.

Per favore, gira la pagina.

Please, turn the page.
Physical Rotation
Describing the movement of round objects like wheels, tops, or even the Earth. For example, 'La Terra gira intorno al Sole' (The Earth revolves around the Sun).
Turning and Changing Direction
Used for turning a corner, turning around, or changing the orientation of something. 'Gira a destra alla prossima strada' (Turn right at the next street).
Circulation and Distribution
Can imply something is being passed around or distributed. 'La notizia è girata rapidamente' (The news circulated quickly).
Figurative Meanings
Includes phrases like 'girare le spalle' (to ignore) or 'girare a vuoto' (to spin one's wheels, to be unproductive).

Ho dovuto girare per trovare parcheggio.

I had to drive around to find parking.
Basic Sentence Structure
'Girare' is an intransitive verb, meaning it usually doesn't take a direct object. It often appears with prepositions or adverbs that indicate direction or manner. The basic structure is Subject + girare + (preposition/adverb).
Indicating Direction
Common prepositions like 'intorno a' (around), 'in' (in/into), 'su' (on), and 'per' (through/around) are frequently used. For example, 'Il bambino gira per la stanza' (The child wanders around the room).
Turning Your Body/Head
When referring to a person turning, you might use it reflexively with 'si' or with prepositions like 'verso' (towards). 'Si è girato per guardarmi' (He turned to look at me).
Giving Directions
'Girare' is essential for giving directions. 'Gira a sinistra al semaforo' (Turn left at the traffic light). 'Gira intorno alla rotonda' (Go around the roundabout).
Describing Object Movement
Used for anything that spins or rotates. 'Il ventilatore gira lentamente' (The fan spins slowly). 'La giostra gira velocemente' (The carousel spins quickly).
Figurative Meanings in Sentences
'Non girare intorno al problema, dì la verità!' (Don't beat around the bush, tell the truth!). 'Mi gira la testa' (My head is spinning/I feel dizzy).

Il pianeta continua a girare.

The planet continues to turn/rotate.

Dobbiamo girare l'angolo per vedere il mare.

We need to turn the corner to see the sea.
Basic Present Tense Conjugation
Io giro, Tu giri, Lui/Lei gira, Noi giriamo, Voi girate, Loro girano.
Common Structures with Prepositions
'Girare in tondo' (to spin in circles), 'girare per la città' (to wander around the city), 'girare intorno a qualcosa' (to revolve around something).
Using with Reflexive Pronouns
'Mi giro', 'ti giri', 'si gira' (I turn, you turn, he/she/it turns). Often used for turning one's body.
Imperative Form (Commands)
'Gira!' (Turn! - informal singular), 'Girate!' (Turn! - informal plural).
Navigational Instructions
In Italy, you'll hear 'girare' constantly when people are giving or asking for directions. 'Devi girare a destra dopo il ponte' (You have to turn right after the bridge). Or, 'Dove devo girare?' (Where do I have to turn?). This is especially common in cities with complex street layouts.
Describing Movement in Public Spaces
When talking about vehicles, people, or even animals moving in a circular path. 'La macchina stava girando intorno alla piazza' (The car was going around the square). 'I bambini giravano nel parco' (The children were running around in the park).
Talking About Objects and Machines
Any time something spins or rotates is a prime candidate for 'girare'. 'Il disco gira ancora?' (Is the record still spinning?). 'Ho sentito la ventola girare' (I heard the fan spinning). This applies to everything from a washing machine drum to a potter's wheel.
Everyday Conversations About Actions
People use it to describe simple turns. 'Mi sono girato per vedere chi era' (I turned around to see who it was). Or even when feeling dizzy: 'Mi gira la testa' (My head is spinning).
Figurative Language and Idioms
You might hear it in expressions like 'girare le spalle' (to turn one's back, meaning to ignore or reject someone), or 'girare a vuoto' (to spin one's wheels, meaning to be unproductive or stuck).
News and Information Flow
'La notizia è girata velocemente' (The news spread quickly) or 'Questi soldi girano poco' (This money circulates little/is not spent much). It implies circulation or movement through a system.

Il tassista mi ha detto di girare a sinistra.

The taxi driver told me to turn left.

Ho visto la sua bicicletta girare nel cortile.

I saw his bicycle spinning/turning in the courtyard.
Using 'Girare' with a Direct Object
'Girare' is primarily intransitive. Learners often mistakenly try to use it with a direct object like 'girare la strada' (turn the street) when they mean 'girare per la strada' (drive/walk around the street) or 'girare in quella strada' (turn into that street). The correct usage depends on the intended meaning. For 'turning a page', the verb is 'voltare', not 'girare'.
Confusing 'Girare' with 'Voltare' or 'Svoltare'
'Voltare' is often used for turning pages ('voltare pagina') or turning one's face/body. 'Svoltare' specifically means to turn a corner or change direction, especially in driving or walking. While 'girare' can sometimes imply these actions, using 'voltare' or 'svoltare' can be more precise in certain contexts. For example, 'Svolta a destra' is the standard way to say 'Turn right' when giving directions.
Incorrect Preposition Usage
Choosing the wrong preposition can change the meaning significantly. For instance, 'girare in' might mean to move within an area, while 'girare a' is used for specific turns. 'Girare per la città' means to wander around the city, whereas 'girare in città' could imply circulating within the city's general area, often in a vehicle.
Overusing 'Girare' for Simple Turns
While 'girare' is versatile, sometimes a more specific verb is better. For simply turning your head, 'voltare la testa' is common. For turning a page, 'voltare pagina' is standard. Relying solely on 'girare' might sound less natural.
Misinterpreting Figurative Meanings
Expressions like 'girare le spalle' have a specific idiomatic meaning (to ignore). Learners might try to translate them literally and miss the intended figurative sense. Similarly, 'girare intorno a un argomento' means to discuss a topic indirectly, not literally to circle it.

Mistake: Io giro la strada.

Incorrect: I turn the street.

Correct: Io giro per la strada.

Correct: I drive/walk around the street.
Svoltare
Difference: 'Svoltare' specifically means to turn a corner or change direction, particularly when driving, cycling, or walking. It implies a more deliberate and often sharper turn than 'girare'.
Voltare
Difference: 'Voltare' is used for turning pages ('voltare pagina'), turning one's face or body, or changing the orientation of something. It can also mean to turn into something, like 'voltare in una strada' (turn into a street). It's often more about changing the facing direction than a circular movement.
Ruotare
Difference: 'Ruotare' means to rotate or spin, often in a more mechanical or precise sense. It emphasizes the act of turning on an axis. While 'girare' can mean to spin, 'ruotare' is more technical, used for things like gears, the Earth's rotation, or a revolving door.
Andare in giro
Difference: This phrase means 'to go around', 'to wander', or 'to be out and about'. It's less about a specific turn and more about general movement or circulation. 'Vado in giro per negozi' (I'm going around the shops).
Passeggiare
Difference: 'Passeggiare' means to walk leisurely, to stroll. While one might 'girare per la città' (wander around the city), 'passeggiare' focuses solely on the act of walking for pleasure, without the implication of turning or spinning.
Circolare
Difference: 'Circolare' means to circulate, to move in a circle or loop. It's often used for traffic, blood, or information. 'Il traffico circola lentamente' (Traffic circulates slowly). 'Girare' can sometimes imply circulation, but 'circolare' is more specific to the path.

Example: Svolta a destra dopo il ponte.

Turn right after the bridge. (Specific direction change)

Example: Volta la pagina, per favore.

Turn the page, please. (Changing orientation)

Example: La Terra ruota sul suo asse.

The Earth rotates on its axis. (Precise spinning)

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The word 'gyrus' in Latin is the root for many words related to circles and spinning in various European languages, including 'gyrate' in English and 'gira' in Spanish. The Italian 'girare' shares this ancient connection to the concept of circular motion.

발음 가이드

UK /dʒiˈraː.re/
US /dʒiˈrɑː.re/
The stress falls on the second-to-last syllable: gi-RA-re.
라임이 맞는 단어
amare parlare mangiare studiare lavorare giocare pensare guardare
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing the 'g' hard, like in 'go'.
  • Not rolling the 'r' sound.
  • Incorrect stress placement, e.g., GI-ra-re.
  • Using an English 'r' sound instead of a rolled Italian 'r'.

난이도

독해 3/5

At A2 level, learners can understand 'girare' in simple written contexts like directions or basic descriptions. Comprehending its figurative meanings or complex sentence structures will require higher proficiency.

쓰기 3/5

A2 learners can use 'girare' in basic sentences, especially for directions and simple actions. Producing it naturally in varied contexts, including figurative uses, develops with practice.

말하기 3/5

Pronouncing and using 'girare' in simple spoken phrases is achievable at A2. Fluency in using it for complex directions or idiomatic expressions requires more practice.

듣기 3/5

Recognizing 'girare' in spoken Italian is generally straightforward at A2, especially in common phrases. Differentiating it from similar verbs in rapid speech may pose a challenge.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

andare fare vedere qui destra

다음에 배울 것

svoltare voltare ruotare circolare intorno

고급

rotazione circonferenza orbita spirale vortice

알아야 할 문법

Conjugation of 'girare' in the present tense.

Io giro, tu giri, lui/lei gira, noi giriamo, voi girate, loro girano.

Use of reflexive pronouns with 'girare' (e.g., 'girarsi').

Mi sono girato per vedere chi era.

Prepositions commonly used with 'girare' (a, per, intorno a).

Gira a destra. Gira per il parco. Gira intorno all'albero.

Formation of the past participle 'girato' for compound tenses.

Ho girato la chiave.

Imperative forms of 'girare'.

Gira! (informal singular) Girate! (informal plural)

수준별 예문

1

Gira!

Turn!

Imperative, informal singular.

2

La ruota gira.

The wheel turns.

Present tense, third person singular.

3

Gira qui.

Turn here.

Imperative + adverb of place.

4

Gira piano.

Turn slowly.

Imperative + adverb of manner.

5

Il mio cappello gira.

My hat spins.

Present tense, third person singular.

6

Gira la testa.

Turn your head.

Imperative + noun.

7

Gira il foglio.

Turn the sheet.

Imperative + noun. (Note: 'voltare' is more common for pages).

8

Gira la chiave.

Turn the key.

Imperative + noun.

1

Gira a destra alla rotonda.

Turn right at the roundabout.

Imperative + prepositional phrase.

2

Mi sono girato per vedere chi era.

I turned around to see who it was.

Past tense (passato prossimo) with reflexive pronoun.

3

Il ventilatore gira lentamente.

The fan spins slowly.

Present tense + adverb of manner.

4

Dobbiamo girare per trovare il negozio.

We have to go around to find the shop.

Infinitive after 'dobbiamo' + 'per' + infinitive.

5

La giostra gira velocemente.

The carousel spins quickly.

Present tense + adverb of manner.

6

Dove devo girare?

Where do I have to turn?

Question form with modal verb 'dovere'.

7

Ho visto la palla girare.

I saw the ball spin.

Past tense (passato prossimo) + infinitive.

8

Gira intorno alla casa.

Go around the house.

Imperative + prepositional phrase.

1

Mi gira la testa da stamattina.

My head has been spinning since this morning.

Present tense + idiomatic expression.

2

Hanno girato per ore prima di trovare la strada giusta.

They wandered for hours before finding the right road.

Past tense (passato prossimo) + duration + 'prima di' + infinitive.

3

Non girare intorno al problema, diciamoci la verità.

Don't beat around the bush, let's tell each other the truth.

Negative imperative + idiomatic expression.

4

La Terra gira intorno al Sole.

The Earth revolves around the Sun.

Present tense + scientific context.

5

Si è girato dall'altra parte quando l'ho salutato.

He turned the other way when I greeted him.

Past tense (passato prossimo) with reflexive pronoun + phrase.

6

Le notizie sono girate velocemente nel villaggio.

The news spread quickly in the village.

Past tense (passato prossimo) + idiomatic use for news.

7

Perché hai girato la chiave così forte?

Why did you turn the key so hard?

Past tense (passato prossimo) + interrogative.

8

Preferisco svoltare a sinistra qui, sembra più corto.

I prefer to turn left here, it seems shorter.

Present tense + comparison with 'svoltare'.

1

Dopo aver girato per ore, finalmente trovammo un rifugio.

After wandering for hours, we finally found a shelter.

Gerund phrase ('dopo aver girato') + past tense (passato remoto).

2

La sua risposta fu quella di girare le spalle al problema, sperando sparisse da solo.

His response was to turn his back on the problem, hoping it would disappear on its own.

Noun phrase + gerund + idiomatic expression.

3

Il meccanismo permette alla ruota di girare liberamente su se stessa.

The mechanism allows the wheel to spin freely on itself.

Infinitive after 'permettere' + reflexive pronoun.

4

Se non si gira la pagina, non si vedrà mai cosa c'è dopo.

If you don't turn the page, you'll never see what's next.

Conditional sentence + impersonal 'si' + infinitive.

5

Il denaro gira poco in questo periodo di crisi.

Money circulates little during this period of crisis.

Present tense + idiomatic use for money circulation.

6

Ho sentito un rumore strano girare nel motore.

I heard a strange noise circulating in the engine.

Past tense (passato prossimo) + gerund.

7

La città sembrava girare a vuoto, senza un vero scopo.

The city seemed to be spinning its wheels, without a real purpose.

Imperfect tense + idiomatic expression.

8

Il bambino si girò verso la madre con un sorriso.

The child turned towards the mother with a smile.

Past tense (passato prossimo) + reflexive pronoun + prepositional phrase.

1

Le voci sul suo licenziamento hanno iniziato a girare non appena è uscita la notizia ufficiale.

Rumors about his dismissal began to circulate as soon as the official news came out.

Past tense (passato prossimo) + subordinate clause.

2

Il suo atteggiamento di girare le spalle ai problemi non gli ha mai giovato.

His attitude of turning his back on problems has never benefited him.

Gerund phrase + possessive adjective + idiomatic expression.

3

È difficile far girare l'economia quando la fiducia dei consumatori è così bassa.

It's difficult to get the economy moving/circulating when consumer confidence is so low.

Causative construction ('far girare') + economic context.

4

Si dice che abbia girato parecchi paesi prima di stabilirsi qui.

It is said that he traveled/went around many countries before settling here.

Impersonal 'si dice' + past tense (passato prossimo) + idiomatic use for traveling.

5

La sua abilità nel girare le parole a suo favore era notevole.

His skill in twisting words in his favor was remarkable.

Noun phrase + gerund + idiomatic expression.

6

Il continuo girare di persone nel locale rendeva difficile mantenere l'ordine.

The continuous coming and going of people in the venue made it difficult to maintain order.

Gerund as noun + noun phrase.

7

Mi sentivo così confuso che mi girava la testa in tutti i sensi.

I felt so confused that my head was spinning in every sense.

Imperfect tense + idiomatic expression + adverbial phrase.

8

Ha tentato di girare la situazione a suo vantaggio, ma senza successo.

He tried to turn the situation to his advantage, but without success.

Infinitive after 'tentare' + idiomatic expression.

1

La sua retorica era tale da far girare le parole nel modo più consono alla sua agenda.

His rhetoric was such as to twist words in the most fitting way for his agenda.

Subjunctive mood + causative construction ('far girare') + idiomatic use.

2

L'intero dibattito rischiava di girare a vuoto, senza mai giungere a una conclusione concreta.

The entire debate risked spinning its wheels, without ever reaching a concrete conclusion.

Infinitive after 'rischiare' + idiomatic expression.

3

Le dinamiche sociali del periodo erano complesse, con un continuo girare di favori e obblighi.

The social dynamics of the period were complex, with a continuous exchange of favors and obligations.

Gerund as noun + noun phrase + abstract concept.

4

Egli possedeva un'arte sottile nel far girare le voci a proprio vantaggio.

He possessed a subtle art in making rumors circulate to his own advantage.

Causative construction ('far girare') + abstract noun.

5

La sua capacità di girare la frittata, come si dice, era leggendaria.

His ability to turn the situation around, as they say, was legendary.

Infinitive phrase + idiomatic expression ('girare la frittata') + parenthetical remark.

6

Il potere tendeva a girare intorno a pochi individui influenti.

Power tended to revolve around a few influential individuals.

Imperfect tense + idiomatic use for power dynamics.

7

La sua risposta evasiva era un modo per girare intorno alla domanda principale.

His evasive answer was a way of beating around the bush of the main question.

Noun phrase + gerund + idiomatic expression.

8

Si percepiva un senso di stasi, come se tutto stesse girando in tondo.

A sense of stasis was perceived, as if everything was spinning in circles.

Impersonal 'si percepiva' + gerund + idiomatic expression.

자주 쓰는 조합

girare la pagina
girare la testa
girare a destra/sinistra
girare intorno a
girare per
girare la chiave
girare in tondo
girare la testa (figurative)
girare le spalle
far girare

자주 쓰는 구문

Gira a destra.

— Turn right.

Per arrivare al museo, gira a destra dopo la piazza.

Gira a sinistra.

— Turn left.

Gira a sinistra alla prima strada che vedi.

Mi gira la testa.

— I feel dizzy. / My head is spinning.

Dopo essere salito sulla giostra, mi gira la testa.

Girare la pagina.

— To turn the page.

Ho finito questo capitolo, ora giro la pagina.

Girare intorno a qualcosa.

— To go around something / To revolve around something.

Il gatto gira intorno alla ciotola del cibo.

Girare per la città.

— To wander around the city / To drive around the city.

Mi piace girare per le strade antiche di Firenze.

Girare le spalle a qualcuno.

— To turn one's back on someone / To ignore someone.

Non girare le spalle ai tuoi amici quando hanno bisogno di te.

La notizia gira.

— The news is circulating / spreading.

La notizia del suo successo gira velocemente.

Gira la chiave.

— Turn the key.

Gira la chiave per aprire la porta del garage.

Girare a vuoto.

— To spin one's wheels / To be unproductive.

Stiamo girando a vuoto con questo progetto, dobbiamo cambiare strategia.

자주 혼동되는 단어

girare vs svoltare

'Svoltare' is more specific for making a sharp turn at an intersection or corner, especially when driving. 'Girare' is more general for turning or spinning.

girare vs voltare

'Voltare' is typically used for turning pages, or turning one's face/body. 'Girare' is more about circular motion or general turning.

girare vs ruotare

'Ruotare' implies a more precise, mechanical rotation on an axis, often used in scientific or technical contexts.

관용어 및 표현

"Girare le spalle a qualcuno"

— To turn one's back on someone; to ignore, reject, or abandon someone.

Non puoi girare le spalle ai tuoi veri amici quando hanno problemi.

Common
"Mi gira la testa"

— My head is spinning; I feel dizzy or overwhelmed.

Dopo aver studiato tutto il giorno, mi gira la testa.

Common
"Girare intorno al problema"

— To beat around the bush; to avoid addressing the main issue directly.

Smettila di girare intorno al problema e dimmi cosa è successo.

Common
"Girare la frittata"

— To turn the situation around; to find a way to benefit from a difficult situation.

Con la sua astuzia, è riuscito a girare la frittata a suo favore.

Informal
"Girare a vuoto"

— To spin one's wheels; to be unproductive, to make no progress.

Siamo qui da ore e stiamo girando a vuoto, dobbiamo trovare una soluzione.

Common
"Fare girare la testa"

— To make someone dizzy or confused; to impress someone greatly.

La sua bellezza mi faceva girare la testa.

Common
"Girare la chiave"

— To turn the key (in a lock).

Ho girato la chiave nella serratura e sono entrato.

Neutral
"Girare la pagina"

— To turn the page (literally or figuratively, meaning to move on from a past event).

Dopo quella brutta esperienza, ho deciso di girare pagina.

Common
"I soldi girano"

— Money circulates; there is economic activity.

In questo periodo di festa, i soldi girano di più.

Neutral
"Girare per"

— To go around, to wander through (a place).

Ci piace girare per i mercati locali la domenica.

Common

혼동하기 쉬운

girare vs svoltare

Both verbs describe changing direction.

'Girare' can mean to turn around, to spin, or to go around something. 'Svoltare' specifically means to turn a corner or make a sharp turn, especially when navigating. For example, you 'svolta' at a street intersection, but a wheel 'gira'.

Devi svoltare a destra al prossimo semaforo (turn right at the next traffic light). La trottola gira velocemente (the top spins quickly).

girare vs voltare

Both verbs can involve changing orientation.

'Girare' often implies a circular motion or a general turn. 'Voltare' is more commonly used for turning pages ('voltare pagina'), turning one's face or body ('voltarsi'), or changing the side of something ('voltare un foglio'). While 'girare la testa' is possible, 'voltare la testa' is also common.

Ho voltato il foglio per leggere il retro (I turned the page over to read the back). Il cane gira intorno alla sua cuccia (The dog goes around its bed).

girare vs ruotare

Both describe spinning or turning.

'Girare' is a general term for turning or spinning. 'Ruotare' implies a more precise rotation around an axis, often used in technical or scientific contexts (e.g., planetary rotation, mechanical parts). While a wheel 'gira', we might say the Earth 'ruota'.

La Terra ruota sul suo asse (The Earth rotates on its axis). La giostra gira velocemente (The carousel spins quickly).

girare vs circolare

Both can imply movement in a path.

'Girare' can mean to go around or wander. 'Circolare' specifically means to move in a loop or to circulate, often used for traffic, blood, or information. 'Gira per la città' means to wander around the city, while 'il traffico circola' means traffic is moving along the road.

Il traffico circola lentamente (Traffic circulates slowly). Mi piace girare per le strade di Napoli (I like to wander through the streets of Naples).

girare vs andare in giro

Both imply movement around a place.

'Girare per' means to wander or drive around a specific area. 'Andare in giro' is a broader phrase meaning to go around, to be out and about, often without a specific destination or purpose, or to circulate.

Mi piace andare in giro la sera (I like to go out in the evening). Mi piace girare per il mercato (I like to wander around the market).

문장 패턴

A1

Imperative + Direction

Gira a destra.

A1

Subject + gira + Adverb

La ruota gira lentamente.

A2

Subject + si gira + Prepositional Phrase

Mi giro verso la finestra.

A2

Dovere + girare + Prepositional Phrase

Dobbiamo girare per trovare il ristorante.

B1

Past Tense + girare + Idiom

Ho girato le spalle al problema.

B1

Subject + gira + Figurative Meaning

Mi gira la testa.

B2

Gerund Phrase + girare + Context

Dopo aver girato per ore, trovammo la strada.

C1

Causative + girare + Object

Il vento fa girare le pale.

어휘 가족

명사

giro

동사

girare

형용사

girevole

관련

rotazione
circolo
svolta
volta
orbita

사용법

frequency

Very high

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'girare' transitively when intransitive is needed. Non 'gira la strada', ma 'gira per la strada' o 'svolta nella strada'.

    'Girare' is often intransitive. 'Gira la strada' sounds like you are turning the street itself. You would 'svoltare' (turn) into a street or 'girare per' (go around) a street.

  • Confusing 'girare' with 'voltare' for pages. Si 'volta' pagina, non si 'gira' pagina.

    While 'girare' can mean turn, 'voltare' is the standard verb for turning pages in a book or document. 'Girare la pagina' is understood but less idiomatic.

  • Incorrect preposition after 'girare'. Gira a destra. Gira per la città. Gira intorno all'edificio.

    The preposition used with 'girare' is crucial. 'A' indicates direction, 'per' indicates movement through or around an area, and 'intorno a' means to go around something specifically.

  • Misinterpreting figurative meanings. Quando qualcuno dice 'Mi gira la testa', non sta parlando di una ruota.

    Idioms like 'mi gira la testa' (I feel dizzy) or 'girare le spalle' (to ignore) have meanings beyond the literal. Learners might try to translate them word-for-word and miss the intended figurative sense.

  • Using 'girare' when 'svoltare' is more precise. Alla rotonda, devi svoltare a sinistra.

    For a specific turn at an intersection or corner, 'svoltare' is often more precise and commonly used than the general 'girare'.

Master the Italian 'R'

The 'r' in 'girare' is rolled. Practice saying 'gira-re' with a strong, trilled 'r' sound. This is crucial for sounding natural. Listen to native speakers and try to imitate them.

Context is King

Remember that 'girare' has many uses. Always consider the context to understand if it means to spin, turn, wander, or something figurative. Pay attention to the prepositions that follow it, as they often clarify the meaning.

Preposition Power

The prepositions used with 'girare' are very important: 'a' for direction (gira a destra), 'per' for wandering around (gira per la città), and 'intorno a' for going around something (gira intorno all'edificio). Learning these will significantly improve your accuracy.

Distinguish Similar Verbs

Be aware of 'svoltare' (turn a corner), 'voltare' (turn a page/face), and 'ruotare' (rotate precisely). While 'girare' is versatile, using the more specific verb when appropriate will make your Italian sound more native.

Visualize the Action

When you encounter 'girare', try to visualize the action. Imagine a spinning wheel, a person turning, or a car making a turn. This visual link will help solidify the meaning in your memory.

Use it in Sentences

Actively try to use 'girare' in your own sentences. Describe how things move around you, give yourself directions, or use it in figurative phrases. The more you use it, the more natural it will become.

Navigational Necessity

In Italy, especially in older cities, navigating streets often involves many turns. Understanding and using 'girare' correctly is essential for practical daily life and travel.

Embrace Idiomatic Uses

Don't shy away from idiomatic expressions like 'girare le spalle' or 'mi gira la testa'. They are very common and learning them will greatly enhance your fluency and understanding of casual Italian.

Regular Review

Periodically review the different meanings and uses of 'girare', especially its common collocations and figurative expressions. Consistent review helps prevent errors and reinforces learning.

Listen to Native Speakers

Pay close attention to how native speakers use 'girare' in podcasts, movies, or conversations. Notice the context, the prepositions used, and the surrounding vocabulary. This is invaluable for understanding its nuances.

암기하기

기억법

Imagine a 'jolly' person (j sound for 'g') who likes to 'rare' (sounds like 'ra-re') books by spinning them around in a circle. So, a jolly person who spins books around to 'rare' them.

시각적 연상

Picture a spinning top or a merry-go-round. As it spins, it 'gira'. Connect the visual of a circular motion with the sound of 'girare'.

Word Web

Spinning Turning Rotating Circular motion Directions Dizzy Wandering Revolving

챌린지

Try to describe five different things you see that are moving or turning using the verb 'girare' in Italian. For example, 'Il ventilatore gira.' (The fan spins.)

어원

The Italian verb 'girare' ultimately derives from the Latin word 'gyrus', meaning 'circle' or 'ring'. This Latin word itself comes from the Greek 'gyros' (γῦρος), also meaning 'circle' or 'ring'. The concept of circularity is deeply embedded in its origins.

원래 의미: To move in a circle, to revolve.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Italian

문화적 맥락

The verb 'girare' is neutral and does not carry any inherent sensitive connotations. Its meaning is purely descriptive of motion.

In English, we have words like 'turn', 'spin', 'revolve', 'rotate', and 'gyrate'. 'Girare' in Italian often covers the ground of 'turn' and 'spin' broadly, but specific contexts might favor more precise English equivalents.

The phrase 'La Dolce Vita' by Federico Fellini often depicts characters moving through vibrant cityscapes, with scenes involving cars turning corners or people dancing in circles, implicitly using 'girare'. In Italian cinema, particularly in comedies, characters might find themselves in situations where they are literally or figuratively 'girando intorno' (beating around the bush) or feeling like their 'testa gira' (head is spinning). The iconic Italian 'giostra' (carousel) is a prime example of something that 'gira' (spins).

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Giving directions on the street.

  • Gira a destra.
  • Gira a sinistra.
  • Gira intorno alla rotonda.
  • Svolta all'angolo.

Describing mechanical objects.

  • La ruota gira.
  • Il motore gira.
  • La ventola gira lentamente.

Talking about personal movement.

  • Mi giro per vedere.
  • Si è girato dall'altra parte.
  • Mi gira la testa.

Figurative language.

  • Girare le spalle.
  • Girare intorno al problema.
  • Girare a vuoto.

Describing general movement or wandering.

  • Gira per la città.
  • Andare in giro.
  • Gira per il parco.

대화 시작하기

"Dove devo girare per andare in centro?"

"Hai visto come gira quella giostra? È velocissima!"

"Mi gira un po' la testa oggi, credo che cambierò aria."

"Ricordi quando ci siamo persi e abbiamo dovuto girare per ore?"

"Cosa succede se giro la chiave in questo modo?"

일기 주제

Descrivi un viaggio in cui hai dovuto girare molto per raggiungere la tua destinazione. Quali strade hai preso e quali indicazioni hai seguito?

Pensa a un momento in cui ti sei sentito confuso o sopraffatto. Come descriveresti quella sensazione usando 'mi gira la testa'?

Racconta di un oggetto che hai visto girare. Potrebbe essere una trottola, una ruota, o qualcos'altro. Descrivi il suo movimento.

Hai mai dovuto 'girare le spalle' a una situazione o a una persona? Spiega perché e come ti sei sentito.

Immagina di dover dare indicazioni a qualcuno per raggiungere un luogo che conosci bene. Usa il verbo 'girare' più volte possibile.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

'Girare' is the most general term for turning or spinning. 'Svoltare' specifically means to turn a corner or make a sharp turn, especially when driving or walking. 'Voltare' is used for turning pages, turning one's face or body, or changing the side of something. For example, you 'svolta' at an intersection, you 'volta' a page, and a wheel 'gira'.

Yes, absolutely. People can 'girare' themselves ('mi giro', 'ti giri', 'si gira') to look at something or change direction. You might also say 'gira la testa' if you feel dizzy.

'Girare intorno a' means to go around something physically, like a dog going around its owner, or to revolve around something conceptually, like a topic that keeps coming back to the same point.

Yes, in the expression 'mi gira la testa', it means 'my head is spinning' or 'I feel dizzy'. It can also be used figuratively to mean feeling overwhelmed or confused.

The most common way is 'voltare pagina'. While 'girare la pagina' is understood, 'voltare' is preferred in this specific context.

'Girare per la città' means to wander around or drive around the city, focusing on exploring its streets. 'Andare in giro' is broader; it means to go out, to be out and about, or to circulate, and can be used for walking, driving, or even for things like news spreading.

'Girare' is primarily intransitive. However, in certain contexts, it can be used transitively, often with a causative meaning like 'far girare' (to make something turn). Also, idioms like 'girare la chiave' or 'girare la pagina' are common, where 'girare' acts on the direct object.

'Girare a vuoto' literally means to spin in vain or to spin one's wheels. Figuratively, it means to be unproductive, to make no progress, or to be stuck in a repetitive, useless cycle.

They commonly use phrases like 'Gira a destra' (Turn right), 'Gira a sinistra' (Turn left), 'Gira intorno alla rotonda' (Go around the roundabout), or 'Gira dopo il ponte' (Turn after the bridge).

'Girare' is a regular -are verb, so its conjugation in the present tense (giro, giri, gira, giriamo, girate, girano) and past tenses is straightforward. The main challenge is often choosing the correct preposition or understanding its figurative meanings.

셀프 테스트 10 질문

/ 10 correct

Perfect score!

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