ci vediamo
Lemma: ci vediamo
Translation: see you; see you later; goodbye; we'll see each other (phrase)
Etymology: This common Italian farewell phrase combines 'ci' (reflexive pronoun 'ourselves/each other') with 'vediamo' (first person plural of 'vedere', meaning 'to see'). Literally translating to 'we see each other', it functions similarly to the English 'see you'. The verb 'vedere' derives from Latin 'vidēre', which shares roots with English words like 'vision', 'video', and 'evident'.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'see' in 'vediamo' (from 'vedere' meaning 'to see') and remember it as 'we see each other'
- The 'ci' sounds like 'see' in English, helping you remember this is about seeing someone again
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This is one of the most common ways to say goodbye in Italian, used in both casual and semi-formal situations. It implies that you expect to see the person again. Italians often use this phrase even when there are no concrete plans to meet again, as it maintains a sense of ongoing relationship.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'ci vediamo' means 'see you' (implying visual contact), 'ci sentiamo' means 'we'll be in touch' or 'talk to you later' (implying communication, often by phone).
Notes: Both phrases are common farewells, but 'ci sentiamo' specifically implies future communication rather than physical meeting.
Mnemonic: 'Vediamo' relates to 'vedere' (to see) while 'sentiamo' relates to 'sentire' (to hear/feel).
Explanation: 'Ci vediamo' is more casual and implies seeing each other again soon, while 'arrivederci' is slightly more formal and can be used with people you may not see again.
Notes: 'Arrivederci' literally means 'until we see each other again' but has become a more general goodbye.
Mnemonic: 'Ci vediamo' is shorter and more casual, like 'see ya', while 'arrivederci' is longer and more formal.