altrettanto
Lemma: altrettanto
Translation: just as much; equally; likewise; as much; the same amount (adverb)
Etymology: Derived from Latin 'alter tantus' meaning 'another so much' or 'as much again'. The 'alter' component means 'other' (compare with English 'alternate', 'alternative') and 'tantus' means 'so much, so great' (related to English 'tantamount'). The combination evolved to express the concept of equal measure or degree.
Example Usage
Ti auguro buona fortuna! - Altrettanto a te!
I wish you good luck! - The same to you!
Lei è altrettanto intelligente quanto sua sorella.
She is just as intelligent as her sister.
Ho mangiato altrettanto quanto te.
I ate just as much as you.
Grazie mille! - Altrettanto!
Thank you very much! - Likewise!
Mnemonics
- Think of 'alter' (other) + 'tanto' (so much) = 'as much as the other'
- Remember 'altro' (other) + 'tanto' (so much) = 'altrettanto'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Commonly used in polite conversation to express reciprocity of feelings or wishes. It's a staple in Italian courtesy expressions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'altrettanto' means 'just as much' or 'equally', 'altrimenti' means 'otherwise' or 'else'.
Confused word:
Devi studiare, altrimenti non passerai l'esame.
You must study, otherwise you won't pass the exam.
Notes: Both words start with 'altr-' from Latin 'alter' (other), but serve completely different grammatical functions.
Mnemonic: 'Altrettanto' has 'tanto' (so much) in it, suggesting quantity or degree; 'altrimenti' has 'mente' (mind) suggesting a different way of thinking.
Explanation: 'Altrettanto' means 'just as much' while 'altro' simply means 'other' or 'another'.
Notes: 'Altro' is a simpler, more basic word, while 'altrettanto' specifically expresses equality or sameness of degree.
Mnemonic: 'Altrettanto' is 'altro' with 'tanto' added, meaning 'other so much' = 'equally as much'.