Meaning
Without emotion.
Cultural Background
The translation of Truman Capote's 'In Cold Blood' as 'A sangue freddo' popularized the term in Italian investigative journalism (Cronaca Nera). In 'Poliziottesco' films of the 70s, villains are often described as having 'sangue freddo' to contrast with the passionate, angry hero cop. Italians highly value 'sangue freddo' in penalty takers (rigoristi). A player who misses is said to have 'sentito la pressione' (felt the pressure). While being 'freddo' (cold) is usually an insult in Italy, having 'sangue freddo' is a respected trait of leadership.
Positive vs Negative
Remember that 'a sangue freddo' is usually negative (crime), but 'avere sangue freddo' is usually positive (bravery/calm).
Don't use for 'Cool'
Never use this to mean someone is 'cool' or 'trendy'. Use 'figo' or 'alla moda' instead.
Meaning
Without emotion.
Positive vs Negative
Remember that 'a sangue freddo' is usually negative (crime), but 'avere sangue freddo' is usually positive (bravery/calm).
Don't use for 'Cool'
Never use this to mean someone is 'cool' or 'trendy'. Use 'figo' or 'alla moda' instead.
The 'Mente' Switch
If you are talking about a decision made after sleeping on it, always switch to 'a mente fredda'.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct form of the idiom.
Il killer ha agito a ______ freddo.
'Sangue freddo' is the standard idiom for acting without emotion.
Which situation best describes 'sangue freddo'?
Quale situazione descrive il 'sangue freddo'?
It refers to emotional calm and control, not physical temperature or anger.
Match the Italian phrase to its English equivalent.
Match the phrases:
These are the four most common variations involving 'cold' and 'blood/mind'.
Fill in the missing part of the dialogue.
A: 'Come ha fatto a non piangere?' B: 'Non lo so, ha reagito ______.'
The context of not crying/not showing emotion requires 'a sangue freddo'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIl killer ha agito a ______ freddo.
'Sangue freddo' is the standard idiom for acting without emotion.
Quale situazione descrive il 'sangue freddo'?
It refers to emotional calm and control, not physical temperature or anger.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are the four most common variations involving 'cold' and 'blood/mind'.
A: 'Come ha fatto a non piangere?' B: 'Non lo so, ha reagito ______.'
The context of not crying/not showing emotion requires 'a sangue freddo'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, but only literally. 'Animali a sangue freddo' means ectothermic animals like snakes.
It depends. If you mean they are a good doctor, it's a compliment. If you mean they are a heartless ex-boyfriend, it's an insult.
The opposite of acting 'a sangue freddo' is acting 'd'impulso' (on impulse) or 'nella foga del momento' (in the heat of the moment).
Yes, very often to describe staying calm during a market crash or a difficult negotiation.
Related Phrases
a mente fredda
similarWith a clear head, usually after time has passed.
senza pietà
similarWithout mercy.
mantenere la calma
synonymTo stay calm.
a sangue caldo
contrastIn the heat of the moment (rarely used as an adverb).
