How to use anche in Italian properly

The Italian word “anche” is one of the most commonly used words in the Italian language. It has multiple meanings and can be used in various contexts. Therefore, it’s essential to know how to use “anche” properly to avoid confusion, misunderstandings and sound like a native. Here are some tips on how to use the word “anche” in Italian in the correct way.

Anche – Meanings

1. Anche in Italian can be used in a or negative positive context. We use anche to indicate that something is true in addition to something else. In negative contexts, you can replace anche with the word “pure”.

Ex: Io parlo italiano, e anche inglese

I speak Italian, and also English

Ex: Non mi piace il pesce, e anche/pure la carne non mi piace

I don’t like fish, and also I don’t like meat

2. Anche can be used as a second affirmative answer to say that someone does the same thing as someone else.

Ex: – Tu vai alla festa?

– Are you going to the party?

+Sì

+ Yes

– E Sara?

– What about Sara?

+ Anche

+ Same

3. At the beginning of a sentence, anche in Italian can be used to express astonishment or reproach.

Ex: Anche tu non hai passato l’esame?!

You failed the exam too?!

Ex: Anche tu mi hai insultato, quindi siamo pari!

You also insulted me, so we’re even!

4. Anche can be used to emphasize a fact that might be surprising or unexpected. In this case, it’s generally translated as “even” in English. When anche carries this meaning, it can be replaced with “persino”.

Ex: Oggi mio figlio ha mangiato anche le verdure

My son even ate the vegetables today

5. Anche can be used to mention a possibility that is in contrast with something that you’ve said before.

Ex: Spero davvero che il tuo colloquio vada bene ma potrebbe anche andare male.

I really hope your interview goes well but it could also go badly.

6. Anche in Italian can have an adversative value (that’s to say implying opposition or contrast) in sentences expressing desire or disappointment. When anche carries this meaning, it’s usually used in place of “ma”, or “però”.

Ex: Avresti anche potuto avvisarmi che eri in ritardo! = Ma/però avresti potuto avvisarmi che eri in ritardo!

You could have warned me that you were late!

7. With a hypothetical value, it’s used to emphasize that the something will still be true if something else happens. When anche has this function, it’s generally followed by the word “se.

Ex: Anche se andasse all’università, non significa che riuscirebbe a prendere una laurea.

Even if he goes to college, it does not mean he would be able to get a degree.

In conclusion, the Italian word “anche” is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts. By following these tips and paying attention to word order, you can use “anche” correctly and effectively in your Italian conversations and writing. Remember that “anche” is a common word in the Italian language, and mastering its usage will make your Italian more fluent and natural-sounding.

So, have you been using anche in Italian correctly?

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Credits

Original image by HND