10 Sicilian Sayings
Sicily, land of sun, sea, and thousands of years of culture, is a place where the language is enriched with colorful expressions and unique sayings. These popular sayings not only reflect the wisdom and humor of the locals, but also tell stories of daily life, traditions, and values. Knowing a few Sicilian sayings helps to discover a world of hidden meanings and linguistic nuances that make communication more lively and authentic. If you are planning a trip to Sicily or simply wish to learn more about this fascinating region, Sicilian sayings are a gateway to its soul.
What is a typical Sicilian phrase?
One of the most emblematic phrases of Sicily is “Cu nesci arrinesci”, which translates to “Whoever goes out, succeeds”. This saying embodies the enterprising and adventurous spirit of Sicilians, suggesting that those who have the courage to step out of their comfort zone and face the world have a greater chance of success. It is an invitation not to fear change and to see challenges as opportunities for growth. The phrase also reflects the history of Sicily, a land that has seen many cultures come and go and has always known how to adapt and thrive. In a modern context, ‘Cu nesci arrinesci’ can be interpreted as encouragement to travel, explore, and embrace new experiences.
Another typical Sicilian phrase is “A megghiu parola è chidda ca non si dici,” which translates to “The best word is the one that is not said.” This saying reflects the popular wisdom of the region, which often encourages moderation in speaking and caution in expressing one’s thoughts. These sayings, therefore, are not just a simple expression, but a true mantra for those who wish to live life to the fullest.
How do Sicilians greet each other?
When visiting Sicily, one of the first things that strikes you is the warm hospitality of its inhabitants, an aspect that is also reflected in their greetings. Sicilians, known for their warmth and openness, have their own unique way of welcoming visitors, which goes far beyond a simple “hello.” In Sicily, greetings are a true ritual that expresses respect and affection. Often, people exchange a warm “good morning” or “good evening,” accompanied by a sincere smile and, not infrequently, by a hug or a vigorous handshake. In the small villages, it is common to be greeted with a warm “hello” or “hi,” demonstrating a sense of community that embraces everyone, including tourists. Sicilians also love to personalize greetings with dialect expressions like “comu stai?” (how are you?) or “talia chi c’è!” (look who’s here!), which add a touch of authenticity and warmth. This way of greeting is not just a formality, but an invitation to feel part of a culture rich in traditions and values.
Among themselves, however, Sicilians greet each other with expressions like “Sabbinirica” which means “may you be blessed,” almost a formal, respectful greeting, especially towards elderly people or authorities. Another common greeting is “Assabbinirica,” which has a similar meaning and is used to express respect and devotion, with the typical response “Diu ti binidica” (“God bless you”).
What is a typical Sicilian exclamation?
When thinking of this region, in addition to its natural and cultural wonders, an intriguing aspect emerges: its colorful Sicilian dialects. A typical Sicilian exclamation that resonates among the sunny streets and lively markets is “Mizzica!” This word, full of expressiveness, is a true symbol of the Sicilian soul, capable of conveying astonishment, wonder, or even a touch of disbelief. Used in a variety of contexts, “Mizzica!” is the equivalent of a “Wow!” in Italian, but with a touch of warmth and authenticity that only the Sicilian dialect can offer.
Another very common exclamation is “Bedda matri!”, which literally means “beautiful mother” and is also used to express wonder or appreciation. Finally, “Amunì” (or “Amunìnni”), which means “let’s go”, is another common exclamation, often used to encourage or give a push to do something.
If you decide to spend your vacation in Sicily, staying at our hotel Domina Zagarella Sicily, you will be able to fully experience the traditions and customs of the region. Located in Santa Flavia, near cities like Palermo and Cefalù, our facility will allow you to visit typical Sicilian villages and experience firsthand how the locals communicate with each other.
After a day dedicated to tradition and local dialects, you can enjoy the tranquility, refinement, and services of Domina Zagarella Sicily. Don’t wait any longer: book your stay with us for your next vacation and discover a world of luxury and hospitality that exceeds all expectations.
