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Italian Phrase Tattoo Ideas

Italian is a beautiful language that lends itself well to tattoos. The tattoo can be done in a variety of scripts or font faces, depending on the meaning of the phrase or personal preference. It's important to double-check the tattoo's grammar and syntax: some phrases in English don't translate well to Italian, and some Italian phrases that might seem ideal for a tattoo don't have any meaning if removed from original context. Find a native Italian speaker to double-check before getting your tattoo.
  1. Love Phrases

    • Italian's often called the language of love, and it's full of phrases and quotes that are testaments to the importance of love. "Amor non conosce travaglio" means "love never tires," and would be a good choice to honor eternal love. "Amore è cierco" is the Italian phrase that's equivalent to the English expression, "love is blind." "Chi ha l’amor nel petto, ha lo sprone a’fianchi" is long, but has a distinct and powerful meaning: "one who has love in one's chest has spurs at one's side." Finally, "chi ama, crede" is a simple, strong statement: "he who loves, trusts."

    Philosophical Phrases

    • Philosophical or thoughtful phrases are rampant in Italian, and would go well for a tattoo to remind you of values or beliefs. "Del male non fare e paura non avere" means "commit no evil, and have no fear." "Cui niente sa, di niente dubita" means "one who knows nothing, doubts nothing." "Cui niente sa, di niente dubita" is loosely translated as "there isn't a rose without thorns," similar to the common English phrase.

    Religious Phrases

    • "Aiutati che Dio ti aiuta" is Italian for "God helps those who help themselves." It would be good for a tattoo about determination and perseverance. "Breve orazione penetra," or "God hears short prayers," would be another short, religiously-themed Italian phrase for a tattoo. "Dio volendo lo faro" means "If God wills it, so do I," while "ognuno per sè e Dio per tutti" means "every man for himself and God for all." All of these phrases would work, both as individual phrases, or in conjunction with religious imagery.

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