Meaning
To be irritable without clear reason.
Cultural Background
The phrase is very common in the North, often used in casual office environments. While understood, other regional idioms might be preferred, but it is still widely recognized. Young people use it frequently in text messages and social media. Older people use it as a standard way to describe someone who is acting out of character.
Use it to soften
It's a great way to talk about someone's bad mood without being mean.
Don't use in formal writing
Keep this for casual conversations only.
Meaning
To be irritable without clear reason.
Use it to soften
It's a great way to talk about someone's bad mood without being mean.
Don't use in formal writing
Keep this for casual conversations only.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
Oggi non parlargli, ____ la luna di traverso.
The idiom uses the verb 'avere'.
Choose the meaning of the phrase.
What does 'avere la luna di traverso' mean?
It describes irritability.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Perché Marco è così arrabbiato? B: Non lo so, forse ____.
This fits the context of someone being grumpy.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesOggi non parlargli, ____ la luna di traverso.
The idiom uses the verb 'avere'.
What does 'avere la luna di traverso' mean?
It describes irritability.
A: Perché Marco è così arrabbiato? B: Non lo so, forse ____.
This fits the context of someone being grumpy.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, you can say 'Oggi ho la luna di traverso' to explain why you are grumpy.
No, it's a lighthearted way to describe a bad mood.
No, it just means you are in a bad mood.
Related Phrases
Avere la luna storta
synonymTo have a crooked moon.
Essere di cattivo umore
similarTo be in a bad mood.
Essere nervoso
similarTo be nervous/irritable.
Avere i nervi a fior di pelle
builds onTo have nerves on the surface of the skin.
