Meaning
To start a process.
Cultural Background
The phrase reflects the national pride in mechanical engineering (Ferrari, Ducati, Fiat). Starting an engine is seen as an act of 'creativity' and 'power'. Italians often use 'mettere in moto' to describe navigating the complex bureaucracy. It implies that once the 'machine' starts, it will eventually reach the goal, but the start is the hardest part. Using 'mettersi in moto' (reflexive) is a common way to encourage a group of friends who are being indecisive or lazy. The phrase gained popularity during the 'Miracolo Economico' (1950s-60s) when car ownership became a reality for the masses.
Use it for 'The Brain'
Italians love using this for mental energy. If you say 'Devo mettere in moto il cervello' in a meeting, you'll sound very natural.
Don't forget the 'In'
It's never 'mettere il moto' or 'mettere moto'. The preposition 'in' is essential.
Meaning
To start a process.
Use it for 'The Brain'
Italians love using this for mental energy. If you say 'Devo mettere in moto il cervello' in a meeting, you'll sound very natural.
Don't forget the 'In'
It's never 'mettere il moto' or 'mettere moto'. The preposition 'in' is essential.
The 'Macchina' Metaphor
Remember that Italians often call organizations 'macchine'. So 'mettere in moto la macchina' usually means starting a big bureaucratic process.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct form of 'mettere in moto'.
Ieri mattina, io non ________ la macchina perché faceva troppo freddo.
The past participle of 'mettere' is 'messo'.
Which sentence uses the phrase figuratively?
Scegli la frase figurata:
Here, 'macchina burocratica' refers to a process, not a physical vehicle.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Il progetto è fermo da mesi. B: Hai ragione, dobbiamo ________.
'Metterlo in moto' (to start it) is the most idiomatic way to talk about a stalled project.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Situazione: Hai appena bevuto il primo caffè della giornata.
It's a common informal expression for waking up.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIeri mattina, io non ________ la macchina perché faceva troppo freddo.
The past participle of 'mettere' is 'messo'.
Scegli la frase figurata:
Here, 'macchina burocratica' refers to a process, not a physical vehicle.
A: Il progetto è fermo da mesi. B: Hai ragione, dobbiamo ________.
'Metterlo in moto' (to start it) is the most idiomatic way to talk about a stalled project.
Situazione: Hai appena bevuto il primo caffè della giornata.
It's a common informal expression for waking up.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNot really. For a computer, use 'accendere' or 'avviare'. 'Mettere in moto' implies physical pistons or a complex organizational 'engine'.
It's neutral. You can use it with friends or in a business email.
'Avviare' is more formal and technical. 'Mettere in moto' is more idiomatic and energetic.
No, 'moto' here means 'motion'. However, you *can* 'mettere in moto la moto' (start the motorcycle), which sounds funny but is correct!
Related Phrases
Mettersi in moto
similarTo get oneself moving or started.
Dare il via
synonymTo give the start/kick-off.
Innescare
similarTo trigger or spark.
Avviare
synonymTo start/launch.
