antipatico
Lemma: antipatico
Translation: unpleasant; disagreeable; unlikable; annoying; unsympathetic (adjective)
Etymology: From the prefix 'anti-' meaning 'against' or 'opposite of' + 'patico' from Greek 'pathētikos' meaning 'sensitive' or 'capable of feeling'. The word literally means 'against sympathy' or 'not arousing sympathy'. The English cognate 'antipathetic' has a similar meaning but is much less commonly used than the Italian 'antipatico', which is an everyday term.
Example Usage
Il nuovo insegnante è molto antipatico.
The new teacher is very unlikable.
Non voglio uscire con lui, è antipatico.
I don't want to go out with him, he's unpleasant.
Mi dispiace, ma tua sorella mi è antipatica.
I'm sorry, but I find your sister disagreeable.
Ha un modo di fare antipatico.
He has an annoying way of doing things.
Mnemonics
- Think 'anti-pathetic' - someone who doesn't arouse sympathy or positive feelings.
- Remember 'anti' (against) + 'patico' (likable) = against being likable.
- Picture an 'anti-party' person who ruins the mood at social gatherings.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Italian culture, being 'antipatico' is considered a significant social flaw. Italians highly value warmth and likability in social interactions, so describing someone as 'antipatico' can be quite a negative judgment. The concept goes beyond just being unpleasant - it suggests someone who fails to connect with others on an emotional level.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'antipatico' means 'unlikable' or 'unpleasant', 'simpatico' means the exact opposite: 'likable', 'pleasant', or 'nice'. They are direct antonyms.
Confused word:
Quel ragazzo è molto simpatico, mi piace parlare con lui.
That boy is very likable, I like talking to him.
Notes: These words are frequently used in everyday Italian to describe people's personalities and first impressions.
Mnemonic: Anti- means 'against', so antipatico is against being likable (simpatico).
Explanation: 'Antipatico' means 'unlikable' or 'unpleasant', while 'apatico' means 'apathetic' or 'indifferent'. They sound similar but describe different personality traits.
Confused word:
Il professore è apatico, non mostra interesse per gli studenti.
The professor is apathetic, he shows no interest in the students.
Notes: Both words have negative connotations but describe different social failings.
Mnemonic: 'Antipatico' has to do with how others perceive you (negatively), while 'apatico' has to do with your lack of emotion or interest.