altro
Lemma: altro
Translation: other; another; different; additional (adjective)
Etymology: From Latin 'alter' (the other of two), which shares the same Indo-European root *al- (beyond) with English words like 'alter', 'alternate', and 'alternative'. The Latin 'alter' evolved into Italian 'altro', maintaining its core meaning of 'otherness' or 'difference'.
Example Usage
Vorrei un altro caffè, per favore.
I would like another coffee, please.
Hai altro da dire?
Do you have anything else to say?
Questa è tutta un'altra storia.
This is a completely different story.
Gli altri studenti sono già arrivati.
The other students have already arrived.
Non c'è altro tempo.
There is no more time.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'alter ego' - your 'other' self.
- Remember 'altro' sounds like 'alter' in English, which means to change to something different or other.
- The 'alt' in 'altro' is like the 'alt' key on a keyboard - it gives you another option.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
A very common and versatile word in Italian, used in many everyday expressions and idioms. It's essential for making comparisons, offering alternatives, or referring to additional items or people.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Altro' means 'other' while 'alto' means 'tall' or 'high'. They look similar but have completely different meanings.
Confused word:
Quell'edificio è molto alto.
That building is very tall.
Notes: The feminine forms can be particularly confusing: 'altra' (other) vs 'alta' (tall).
Mnemonic: 'Altro' has an 'r' for 'other', while 'alto' without the 'r' is for height.
Explanation: 'Altro' means 'other/another' while 'altrettanto' means 'as much' or 'equally'.
Confused word:
Ti auguro altrettanta fortuna.
I wish you equal luck.
Notes: Both words derive from Latin 'alter' but have evolved to serve different grammatical functions.
Mnemonic: 'Altrettanto' contains 'tanto' which hints at quantity or amount.