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B1 verb 8 min de leitura

definire

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas definire em 30 segundos

Explicação definire in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'definire' is a word you might encounter when talking about basic learning. You use it primarily to ask for the meaning of a word. For example, 'Puoi definire questa parola?' (Can you define this word?). It is a helpful tool for expanding your vocabulary. You don't need to worry about complex conjugations yet; just focus on the infinitive form used with 'potere' (can) or 'dovere' (must). Think of it as the 'dictionary word'. At this stage, you might also see it in very simple instructions in a workbook, such as 'Definisci l'immagine' (Identify/Define the image), although 'descrivi' is more common there. The key is to associate 'definire' with 'spiegare il significato' (explaining the meaning). It's a foundational verb for anyone wanting to learn more Italian words through Italian explanations.

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By A2, you start using 'definire' to talk about plans and simple classifications. You might say 'Dobbiamo definire l'orario' (We need to define the schedule) when planning a trip with friends. You also begin to see the reflexive form 'definirsi' in basic introductions, like 'Lui si definisce uno studente serio' (He defines himself as a serious student). At this level, you are moving beyond just word meanings into the territory of making decisions and setting simple parameters. You should practice the present tense: 'io definisco' (Wait, actually it is 'io definisco' in the -isc- form for some verbs, but 'definire' is a regular -ire verb: io definisco, tu definisci, lui definisce - actually, 'definire' DOES take the -isc- suffix: io definisco, tu definisci, lui definisce, noi definiamo, voi definite, loro definiscono). This is a crucial grammatical point to master at A2. It helps you talk about how you categorize things in your daily life.

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At the B1 level, which is the target level for this word, 'definire' becomes essential for expressing opinions and participating in discussions. You are expected to use it to clarify your points. For instance, in a debate about social media, you might say, 'È difficile definire cosa sia la privacy oggi' (It is difficult to define what privacy is today). You use it to set the stage for your arguments. You also start using the past participle 'definito' as an adjective to mean something is clear or finalized, such as 'un piano definito' (a definite plan). This level requires you to use 'definire' with 'come' to characterize people or situations: 'Lo hanno definito un eroe'. It shows you can look beyond the surface and provide a more structured analysis of the world around you.

At B2, 'definire' is used frequently in professional and academic contexts. You will use it to discuss strategies, legal terms, and complex concepts. You might say, 'Dobbiamo definire i parametri della nostra ricerca' (We need to define the parameters of our research). You are also comfortable with the passive voice: 'Questi termini sono stati definiti nel capitolo precedente' (These terms were defined in the previous chapter). At this level, you understand the nuance between 'definire' and synonyms like 'delimitare' or 'precisare'. You can use 'definire' to summarize a complex situation: 'Possiamo definire la situazione come critica' (We can define the situation as critical). Your usage is more precise, and you use the verb to provide structure to your speech and writing, ensuring that your audience understands your exact meaning.

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By C1, your use of 'definire' is nuanced and sophisticated. You use it to explore philosophical or abstract boundaries. You might engage in a discussion about 'come definire l'identità nazionale' (how to define national identity) or 'definire i limiti dell'etica' (defining the limits of ethics). You use the verb to challenge existing definitions or to propose new ones. You are also adept at using it in the gerund form to explain a process: 'Definendo meglio gli obiettivi, abbiamo ottenuto risultati migliori' (By defining the objectives better, we obtained better results). You recognize the word's power to shape reality and use it to persuade and inform. Your vocabulary around the word is also expanded, including related terms like 'indefinibile' (undefinable) or 'predefinito' (predefined).

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At the C2 level, 'definire' is used with absolute precision and stylistic flair. You might use it in literary analysis or high-level legal discourse where every word counts. You understand the historical and etymological weight of the word—how it comes from the Latin 'finis' (end/boundary). You might use it in complex sentence structures: 'Sarebbe riduttivo definire la sua opera semplicemente come 'realista'' (It would be reductive to define his work simply as 'realist'). You can navigate the most subtle differences between 'definire', 'circoscrivere', and 'connotare'. At this level, 'definire' is not just a verb but a tool for intellectual precision, used to dissect complex ideas and present them with crystalline clarity. You use it to establish authority and to navigate the most intricate linguistic landscapes.

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

definire em 30 segundos

Definire is a B1-level Italian verb meaning to define or clarify.
It follows the regular -ire conjugation pattern with the -isc- suffix.
Commonly used to set boundaries, explain meanings, or characterize people.
Essential for professional, academic, and precise daily communication in Italy.

The Italian verb definire is a cornerstone of precise communication, serving as the linguistic tool used to establish boundaries, clarify meanings, and bring structure to abstract concepts. At its core, it translates to 'to define,' but its utility spans far beyond the pages of a dictionary. In Italian culture, where nuances in expression are highly valued, knowing how to definire something correctly is the difference between being misunderstood and being eloquent.

Lexical Precision: This is the most common use, where one explains the exact meaning of a word or a concept. For instance, a teacher might ask a student to define a mathematical theorem or a literary movement. It implies a formal, objective approach to language.

È difficile definire l'amore con una sola parola, poiché comprende mille sfumature diverse.

Establishing Boundaries: In professional and legal contexts, definire is used to set limits or parameters. You might define the terms of a contract (definire i termini di un contratto) or define the borders of a property. It suggests a process of finalized decision-making.

Dobbiamo ancora definire i dettagli del progetto prima della scadenza di domani.

Subjective Characterization: People use this verb to express opinions about others or themselves. If you describe yourself as a traveler, you could say 'Mi definisco un viaggiatore'. It carries a weight of identity and self-perception.

Molti critici hanno preferito definire quel film come un capolavoro del cinema contemporaneo.

Il dizionario serve a definire correttamente i vocaboli di una lingua.

Non possiamo procedere senza definire le priorità del nostro team.

In summary, definire is not just about words; it is about clarity, boundaries, and identity. Whether you are in a boardroom or a classroom, this verb helps you nail down the specifics of your reality.

Mastering the use of definire involves understanding its grammatical patterns and its reflexive form. As a regular -ire verb (like 'sentire' but without the -isc- suffix in the present tense), it follows a predictable conjugation path. However, the way it interacts with prepositions and objects is where the real nuance lies.

Transitive Usage (Direct Object): When you define a thing or a concept directly. 'Definisco il problema' (I define the problem). Here, 'il problema' is the direct object. No preposition is needed between the verb and the object.

Il giudice deve definire la sentenza entro la fine della settimana.

Characterizing with 'Come': When you want to describe someone or something as having a certain quality. 'Definire [A] come [B]'. For example: 'Lo definisco come un amico fidato'. The 'come' is often optional but adds clarity.

Non so come definire questa strana sensazione di nostalgia.

Reflexive Form: Definirsi: This is used to describe oneself. 'Mi definisco un ottimista'. It is reflexive, so the pronoun changes according to the subject (mi, ti, si, ci, vi, si).

Lei si definisce un'artista indipendente nonostante il successo commerciale.

Dobbiamo definire meglio i confini tra le nostre competenze lavorative.

Il professore ha cercato di definire il concetto di libertà nel suo ultimo libro.

Whether you're defining a word, a boundary, or yourself, remember that definire implies a sense of finality and precision. It is an active verb that demands a clear object or a descriptive 'come' clause to reach its full potential in a sentence.

You will encounter definire in a variety of real-world Italian settings, from the intellectual atmosphere of a university to the fast-paced environment of a business meeting. It is a word that signals a need for clarity and agreement.

In the News and Media: Journalists often use it when discussing government policies or international relations. You'll hear phrases like 'definire la strategia' or 'definire gli accordi'. It suggests that the planning stage is moving toward a concrete conclusion.

Il primo ministro ha convocato i ministri per definire il nuovo decreto legge.

In Business and Tech: In Italian offices, you'll hear it during project planning. 'Dobbiamo definire le scadenze' (We need to define the deadlines). In technology, it refers to defining variables or system parameters.

Gli ingegneri stanno lavorando per definire le specifiche tecniche del nuovo smartphone.

In Academic Circles: Universities are perhaps the most common place for this word. Professors will 'definire i criteri di valutazione' (define evaluation criteria) or ask students to 'definire il contesto storico'.

Per superare l'esame, è fondamentale saper definire i termini filosofici principali.

Dobbiamo definire chi porterà cosa per la cena di stasera.

La polizia sta cercando di definire la dinamica dell'incidente stradale.

From the high-stakes world of politics to the simple organization of a dinner party, definire is the go-to verb for getting everyone on the same page and ensuring that there is no room for ambiguity.

While definire is relatively straightforward, English speakers and even intermediate Italian learners often stumble over its specific nuances, especially when compared to similar-sounding or similar-meaning verbs.

Confusing with 'Descrivere': This is the most frequent error. 'Descrivere' means to describe (paint a picture with words), while 'definire' means to give an exact definition or classification. You define a word, but you describe a sunset.

Sbagliato: Posso definire la mia vacanza come bellissima. (Better: Posso descrivere la mia vacanza...)

Misusing Prepositions: Learners often want to say 'definire di' or 'definire a'. Remember, 'definire' is transitive. You define *something*. The only common preposition is 'come' when making a comparison or classification.

Corretto: Dobbiamo definire i dettagli. (We must define the details - correct and common).

Overusing the Reflexive: Sometimes learners use 'definirsi' when they simply mean 'chiamarsi' (to be called). 'Mi definisco Marco' is incorrect; it should be 'Mi chiamo Marco'. 'Definirsi' implies a choice of identity or characterization.

Sbagliato: Come si definisce questo oggetto in italiano? (Better: Come si chiama...? or Qual è la definizione di...?)

Non puoi definire un'azione senza conoscerne le motivazioni profonde.

È un errore definire quel comportamento come 'normale' in questo contesto.

By avoiding these common pitfalls—confusing it with description, using wrong prepositions, or over-applying the reflexive—you will sound much more natural and precise in your Italian conversations.

To truly master Italian, you need to know when definire is the best choice and when a synonym might be more appropriate. Italian is rich with verbs that touch upon the act of clarifying and establishing.

Precisare vs. Definire: 'Precisare' means to specify or clarify a detail. While 'definire' sets a boundary or meaning, 'precisare' adds more exactness to something already defined. Example: 'Voglio precisare che non ero presente' (I want to clarify that I wasn't there).

Dobbiamo definire il piano, ma prima vorrei precisare alcuni punti tecnici.

Delimitare vs. Definire: 'Delimitare' is more physical or spatial. It means to mark the boundaries of an area. While 'definire' can be used for abstract boundaries, 'delimitare' is the go-to for fences, borders, and physical zones.

L'architetto ha dovuto definire gli spazi, delimitando le zone di passaggio.

Specificare vs. Definire: 'Specificare' is very close to 'definire' in technical contexts. However, 'specificare' is usually about listing items or details, whereas 'definire' is about the essence of the thing itself.

Il contratto deve definire i ruoli e specificare i compensi di ciascuno.

Non è facile definire il successo senza considerare la felicità personale.

Possiamo definire questa epoca come l'era della digitalizzazione di massa.

Understanding these alternatives allows you to choose the most precise word for your context, making your Italian sound sophisticated and clear. Whether you're specifying a detail or marking a boundary, there is always a perfect verb for the job.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The word literally means 'to put a limit around something'. When you define a word, you are drawing a circle around its meaning so it doesn't bleed into other words.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /de.fiˈni.re/

US /de.fiˈni.re/

The stress falls on the penultimate syllable: de-fi-NI-re.

Rima com

finire capire sentire dormire partire uscire mentire soffrire

Erros comuns

Pronouncing the 'r' too heavily like an English 'r'.
Misplacing the stress on the first or second syllable.
Not using the -isc- suffix in present tense conjugations.
Pronouncing the 'e' at the end as a silent letter.
Confusing the 'i' sound with an English 'eye' sound.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

Common in texts, easy to recognize from English 'define'.

Escrita 3/5

Requires knowledge of the -isc- conjugation and correct prepositions.

Expressão oral 3/5

Useful but requires precision in characterizing objects or people.

Audição 2/5

Clear pronunciation and usually stands out in a sentence.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

parola significato spiegare limite chiaro

Aprenda a seguir

precisare specificare delimitare determinare concludere

Avançado

ontologia semantica giurisprudenza assoluto circoscrivere

Gramática essencial

Verbs in -ire with -isc- suffix

Io definisco (I define), tu definisci (you define).

Reflexive verbs for self-characterization

Mi definisco un avventuriero.

Passive voice with 'essere'

Il termine è stato definito dal professore.

Using 'come' for comparisons/labels

Viene definito come un capolavoro.

Infinitive as a noun/subject

Definire il problema è il primo passo.

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

Exemplos por nível

Puoi definire questa parola?

Can you define this word?

Infinitive after 'puoi'.

Io definisco il mio cane come un amico.

I define my dog as a friend.

Present tense, first person singular.

Il professore definisce il compito.

The professor defines the assignment.

Present tense, third person singular.

Dobbiamo definire il colore.

We need to define the color.

Infinitive after 'dobbiamo'.

Loro definiscono la città bella.

They define the city as beautiful.

Present tense, third person plural.

Come definisci la tua casa?

How do you define your home?

Present tense, second person singular.

Voglio definire il mio stile.

I want to define my style.

Infinitive after 'voglio'.

Definiamo il gioco ora.

Let's define the game now.

Present tense, first person plural (imperative feel).

Dobbiamo ancora definire l'orario della festa.

We still need to define the time of the party.

Use of 'ancora' with the infinitive.

Lui si definisce un bravo cuoco.

He defines himself as a good cook.

Reflexive form 'si definisce'.

Potete definire i vostri obiettivi?

Can you define your goals?

Second person plural with 'potete'.

Il libro definisce bene la storia.

The book defines the history well.

Adverb 'bene' modifying the verb.

Abbiamo definito il prezzo ieri.

We defined the price yesterday.

Passato prossimo.

Non è facile definire questo sapore.

It is not easy to define this flavor.

Impersonal 'non è facile' + infinitive.

Lei definisce sempre tutto con cura.

She always defines everything with care.

Adverb 'sempre' placement.

Vogliamo definire il nostro rapporto.

We want to define our relationship.

Infinitive after 'vogliamo'.

È importante definire le regole del gioco prima di iniziare.

It is important to define the rules of the game before starting.

Impersonal expression 'è importante'.

Molti lo definiscono come il miglior attore della sua generazione.

Many define him as the best actor of his generation.

Direct object 'lo' and 'come'.

Dobbiamo definire meglio la nostra strategia di marketing.

We need to better define our marketing strategy.

Adverb 'meglio' between verb and object.

Non riesco a definire bene cosa provo per lei.

I can't quite define what I feel for her.

'Riuscire a' + infinitive.

La legge definisce chiaramente i diritti dei lavoratori.

The law clearly defines the rights of workers.

Adverb 'chiaramente' modifying the verb.

Si è definito un esperto di informatica.

He defined himself as a computer expert.

Reflexive passato prossimo.

Hanno cercato di definire i confini della proprietà.

They tried to define the boundaries of the property.

'Cercare di' + infinitive.

Come definiresti la tua esperienza all'estero?

How would you define your experience abroad?

Conditional mood 'definiresti'.

Il contratto serve a definire le responsabilità di ciascuna parte.

The contract serves to define the responsibilities of each party.

'Servire a' + infinitive.

È difficile definire i parametri esatti di questo esperimento.

It's difficult to define the exact parameters of this experiment.

Impersonal 'è difficile'.

L'autore definisce il protagonista attraverso i suoi silenzi.

The author defines the protagonist through his silences.

Prepositional phrase 'attraverso i suoi silenzi'.

Dobbiamo definire una volta per tutte la nostra posizione politica.

We must define our political position once and for all.

Idiom 'una volta per tutte'.

Il successo non può essere definito solo in termini economici.

Success cannot be defined only in economic terms.

Passive voice 'essere definito'.

Avevano già definito i dettagli prima del nostro arrivo.

They had already defined the details before our arrival.

Trapassato prossimo.

Si definiscono una società all'avanguardia tecnologica.

They define themselves as a technologically advanced company.

Reflexive plural 'si definiscono'.

Questo evento ha contribuito a definire la sua carriera.

This event contributed to defining his career.

'Contribuire a' + infinitive.

Bisognerebbe definire i criteri di selezione in modo più rigoroso.

The selection criteria should be defined more rigorously.

Conditional 'bisognerebbe' + infinitive.

La critica ha faticato a definire il genere di quest'opera.

Critics struggled to define the genre of this work.

'Faticare a' + infinitive.

Definendo gli obiettivi, si riduce il rischio di fallimento.

By defining the objectives, the risk of failure is reduced.

Gerund 'definendo'.

Non possiamo definire la realtà senza considerare la percezione soggettiva.

We cannot define reality without considering subjective perception.

Complex abstract sentence.

Il termine 'sostenibilità' è spesso definito in modi contraddittori.

The term 'sustainability' is often defined in contradictory ways.

Passive voice with 'spesso'.

La sua figura si è definita meglio con il passare degli anni.

His figure became better defined as the years went by.

Reflexive 'si è definita' used figuratively.

Dobbiamo definire l'ambito di applicazione di questa norma.

We need to define the scope of application of this rule.

Technical legal jargon.

Nessuno oserebbe definire quel comportamento come etico.

No one would dare define that behavior as ethical.

Conditional 'oserebbe' + infinitive.

L'ontologia si occupa di definire l'essenza stessa dell'essere.

Ontology deals with defining the very essence of being.

Academic philosophical context.

È un'impresa ardua definire i confini tra genio e follia.

It is an arduous task to define the boundaries between genius and madness.

Elevated vocabulary 'impresa ardua'.

La sua poetica si può definire come una ricerca dell'assoluto.

His poetics can be defined as a search for the absolute.

Passive construction 'si può definire'.

I parametri che definiscono la nostra esistenza sono in costante mutamento.

The parameters that define our existence are in constant flux.

Relative clause 'che definiscono'.

Occorre definire con estrema precisione le variabili in gioco.

It is necessary to define the variables at play with extreme precision.

Impersonal 'occorre' + infinitive.

Egli si definì, con un certo sarcasmo, un 'sopravvissuto della modernità'.

He defined himself, with a certain sarcasm, as a 'survivor of modernity'.

Passato remoto 'si definì'.

La sentenza ha mirato a definire una volta per tutte la giurisprudenza in materia.

The ruling aimed to define the jurisprudence on the matter once and for all.

Legal context with 'mirare a'.

Non si può definire la bellezza prescindendo dalla sua dimensione tragica.

Beauty cannot be defined without considering its tragic dimension.

Complex structure with 'prescindendo'.

Colocações comuns

definire gli obiettivi

definire i dettagli

definire un termine

definire una strategia

definire i contorni

definire le priorità

definire i criteri

definire un accordo

definire un profilo

definire una posizione

Frases Comuns

definire il campo

— To narrow down the scope of a discussion or research.

Dobbiamo definire il campo della nostra indagine.

definire le linee guida

— To establish the main rules or principles to follow.

Il manuale serve a definire le linee guida aziendali.

definire una situazione

— To assess and label a state of affairs.

Non so come definire questa situazione assurda.

definire i ruoli

— To clarify who does what in a group.

È importante definire i ruoli all'interno del team.

definire l'identità

— To establish what makes someone or something unique.

Il marchio deve definire la sua identità visiva.

definire il prezzo

— To set the final cost of something.

Il venditore deve ancora definire il prezzo finale.

definire le scadenze

— To set the dates by which tasks must be completed.

Dobbiamo definire le scadenze per la consegna.

definire un confine

— To establish a physical or metaphorical border.

È difficile definire un confine tra lavoro e vita privata.

definire le modalità

— To establish the ways or methods in which something will be done.

Dobbiamo definire le modalità di pagamento.

definire un concetto

— To explain an abstract idea clearly.

Il filosofo cerca di definire il concetto di giustizia.

Frequentemente confundido com

definire vs descrivere

Descrivere is for narrative/visual details; Definire is for essence/boundaries.

definire vs decidere

Decidere is to make a choice; Definire is to clarify the choice's parameters.

definire vs chiamare

Chiamare is for names; Definire is for classifications/labels.

Expressões idiomáticas

"definire a grandi linee"

— To describe or define something broadly without details.

Ho definito il progetto solo a grandi linee.

neutral

"definire una volta per tutte"

— To define something finally so it is never questioned again.

Dobbiamo definire questa faccenda una volta per tutte.

neutral

"non sapersi definire"

— To be unable to describe or categorize oneself.

Lui è un artista che non sa definirsi.

informal

"definire nei minimi dettagli"

— To define something extremely precisely.

Hanno definito il piano nei minimi dettagli.

neutral

"definire il colpo"

— In some contexts, to finalize a deal or an action (less common, usually 'mettere a segno').

Stanno per definire il colpo di mercato.

journalistic

"definire i termini della questione"

— To clarify the parameters of a problem.

Prima di litigare, definiamo i termini della questione.

formal

"definire l'indefinibile"

— To try to explain something that is impossible to explain.

Cercare di spiegare il misticismo è come voler definire l'indefinibile.

literary

"definire un'epoca"

— To be the symbolic representation of a historical period.

Quella canzone ha definito un'intera epoca.

neutral

"definire la rotta"

— Literally to set a course, figuratively to set a direction for a project.

Il capitano deve definire la rotta.

neutral

"definire lo spazio"

— To organize or give meaning to a physical area.

I mobili servono a definire lo spazio della stanza.

neutral

Fácil de confundir

definire vs determinare

Both involve setting limits.

Determinare often implies causation (this determines that), while definire implies linguistic or conceptual clarification.

Le piogge determinano il raccolto vs. Dobbiamo definire il raccolto.

definire vs precisare

Both aim for clarity.

Precisare adds a specific detail to something already known; Definire establishes the whole meaning.

Voglio precisare l'ora vs. Voglio definire l'agenda.

definire vs limitare

Both relate to boundaries.

Limitare is to restrict or put a cap on something; Definire is to identify what something is.

Dobbiamo limitare le spese vs. Dobbiamo definire le spese.

definire vs identificare

Both involve recognizing what something is.

Identificare is to pick something out of a group; Definire is to explain its nature.

Identificare il colpevole vs. Definire il crimine.

definire vs connotare

Both deal with meaning.

Connotare refers to the secondary or emotional meanings; Definire refers to the primary, literal meaning.

Questa parola connota tristezza vs. Il dizionario definisce la parola.

Padrões de frases

Io definisco [oggetto].

Io definisco il libro.

Noi dobbiamo definire [cosa].

Noi dobbiamo definire l'orario.

Lui lo definisce come [qualità].

Lui lo definisce come un genio.

È stato definito [aggettivo] dalla critica.

È stato definito superbo dalla critica.

Definendo [concetto], possiamo capire [conseguenza].

Definendo la libertà, possiamo capire i nostri doveri.

Sarebbe arduo definire [astrazione] senza [condizione].

Sarebbe arduo definire l'anima senza la teologia.

Non so come definire [sentimento].

Non so come definire la mia gioia.

Si definisce un [ruolo].

Si definisce un esperto.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

definizione (definition)

definitezza (definiteness)

indefinitezza (indefiniteness)

Verbos

ridefinire (to redefine)

definirsi (to define oneself)

Adjetivos

definito (defined/definite)

definitivo (final/definitive)

indefinito (indefinite)

indefinibile (undefinable)

Relacionado

fine (end/limit)

confine (border)

finitura (finish/completion)

finalità (purpose)

limitare (to limit)

Cadastre-se grátis para ver todos os exemplos

Como usar

frequency

Common in both written and spoken Italian, especially in organized or intellectual settings.

Erros comuns

Io defino → Io definisco
Definire is an -isc- verb in the present tense. You must add -isc- to the first, second, and third person singular, and the third person plural.
Definire di un problema → Definire un problema
Definire is a transitive verb. It does not take the preposition 'di' before its direct object.
Mi definisco Marco → Mi chiamo Marco
Definirsi is for labels and characterizations, not for personal names.
Definire una vacanza bellissima → Descrivere una vacanza come bellissima
Definire is for exact meanings or categories. For subjective experiences and visual details, 'descrivere' is better.
Dobbiamo definire a che ora → Dobbiamo stabilire a che ora
While 'definire' can be used for time, 'stabilire' or 'fissare' is more common for specific clock times in casual speech.

Dicas

Master the -isc-

Remember that 'definire' is an -isc- verb. This is the biggest hurdle for beginners. Practice saying 'io definisco' until it feels natural. Don't say 'io defino'!

Use it for Clarity

When you are in a group and feel there is a misunderstanding, say: 'Dobbiamo definire meglio la situazione'. It shows you are a clear thinker and a good communicator.

Pair with Adverbs

Italian speakers often pair 'definire' with adverbs like 'chiaramente' (clearly), 'meglio' (better), or 'rigorosamente' (rigorously) to sound more professional.

Reflexive Identity

Use 'mi definisco' to talk about your hobbies or personality in a sophisticated way. Instead of 'Sono un cuoco', try 'Mi definisco un appassionato di cucina'.

Contextual Clues

If you hear 'definito' at the end of a sentence, it's often an adjective meaning 'settled'. If you hear it in the middle, it's likely the past participle of the verb.

Define your Terms

In any essay, 'definire' is your best friend. Start your paragraphs by defining the key concept you are about to discuss to give your writing a strong structure.

Italian Precision

Italians value precision in certain areas, like food. You can 'definire' the correct way to make a carbonara (no cream!) to show you understand Italian culture.

Relationship Status

The phrase 'dobbiamo definire il nostro rapporto' is a heavy one. Use it only when you are ready for a serious talk about where a relationship is going.

Dictionary Skills

Practice using 'definire' to explain Italian words to other learners. It's a great way to practice the verb and your vocabulary simultaneously.

The Boundary Line

Think of a fence. A fence 'definisce' the garden. The fence is the 'finis' (end). This will help you remember the meaning and the spelling.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'defining' the 'finish' line. De-FINIRE. You are setting the 'finis' (end) of what a word means.

Associação visual

Imagine a person drawing a sharp black border around a blurry cloud. The cloud is the concept, and the border is the act of 'definire'.

Word Web

definizione confine limite chiarire precisare vocabolario contratto concetto

Desafio

Try to define three objects in your room in Italian using the sentence: 'Posso definire questo/a [oggetto] come [descrizione].'

Origem da palavra

From the Latin verb 'definire', which is composed of the prefix 'de-' (completely/away) and 'finire' (to finish, from 'finis' meaning 'end' or 'boundary').

Significado original: To set bounds to, to limit, or to bring to an end.

Romance (Latinate)

Contexto cultural

Be careful when using 'definirsi' to label others, as it can sound judgmental if the label is negative.

Similar to 'to define' in English, but used more frequently in everyday conversation to mean 'to finalize' or 'to characterize'.

Dante Alighieri used 'definire' in his philosophical works to categorize virtues and vices. The Accademia della Crusca is the institution that 'definisce' the Italian language. Italian legal codes are famous for their attempts to 'definire' every possible social interaction.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

At School

Definire un termine
Definire un concetto
Definire una funzione
Definire il contesto

In the Office

Definire la strategia
Definire gli obiettivi
Definire le scadenze
Definire il budget

Legal/Contracts

Definire i termini
Definire le responsabilità
Definire le clausole
Definire la durata

Personal Identity

Definirsi un esperto
Definirsi un artista
Definirsi fortunato
Definirsi un viaggiatore

Art and Design

Definire le linee
Definire i volumi
Definire lo stile
Definire i colori

Iniciadores de conversa

"Come definiresti la tua giornata ideale in Italia?"

"È possibile definire l'arte moderna in poche parole?"

"Come ti definiresti in tre aggettivi diversi?"

"Quali sono gli obiettivi che vorresti definire per il prossimo anno?"

"Pensi che sia facile definire la felicità?"

Temas para diário

Prova a definire cosa significa per te 'casa'. È un luogo o una sensazione?

Definisci i tuoi tre valori più importanti e spiega perché sono fondamentali.

Rifletti su come gli altri ti definiscono e se sei d'accordo con la loro visione.

Scrivi un paragrafo per definire il tuo rapporto ideale con la tecnologia.

Come definiresti il successo se il denaro non esistesse?

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Yes, in the present indicative tense, 'definire' follows the pattern of 'capire' or 'pulire'. For example: io definisco, tu definisci, lui/lei definisce, noi definiamo, voi definite, loro definiscono. This is a common feature of many -ire verbs in Italian.

Not usually. You would use 'descrivere' for physical traits like hair color or height. Use 'definire' for their character or role, like 'Lo definisco un tipo testardo' (I define him as a stubborn guy).

No. To say 'My name is...', use 'Mi chiamo'. Use 'Mi definisco' only when you are giving yourself a label or category, such as 'Mi definisco un vegetariano'.

'Definito' means clearly established or marked (like a well-defined line). 'Definitivo' means final and unchangeable (like a final decision or a 'definitive' edition of a book).

Yes, it is very common in mathematics to define variables, functions, or sets. For example: 'Definiamo X come un numero intero' (Let's define X as an integer).

It is neutral. It can be used in formal academic papers, but it is also used in casual conversations when someone wants to be clear about what they mean.

The word is 'ridefinire'. It is used just like 'definire' but implies doing it again to change the current definition. Example: 'Dobbiamo ridefinire la nostra missione'.

Usually, no preposition follows it because it is a transitive verb (definire qualcosa). However, if you are labeling something as something else, you use 'come' (definire qualcosa come...).

Yes, you can say 'definire la data', though 'fissare la data' or 'stabilire la data' are also very common and sometimes preferred in casual speech.

Yes, 'indefinito' is the adjective meaning 'indefinite' or 'vague'. It comes from the same root and describes something that has not been 'definito'.

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