darsi del lei
Lemma: darsi del lei
Translation: to address each other formally; to use formal language with each other; to use the formal 'Lei' when speaking to each other (phrase)
Etymology: This Italian phrase combines the reflexive verb 'darsi' (to give oneself) with 'del lei,' which refers to the formal third-person singular pronoun 'Lei' used for polite address. The construction literally means 'to give oneself the Lei,' indicating the act of using formal language in conversation. The capitalization of 'Lei' in written Italian emphasizes its status as a formal address pronoun, distinct from the third-person feminine pronoun 'lei' (she).
Example Usage
I colleghi si danno del lei quando sono in presenza dei clienti.
Colleagues address each other formally when in the presence of clients.
Dopo vent'anni di amicizia, ancora si danno del lei.
After twenty years of friendship, they still address each other formally.
In Italia, gli studenti e i professori si danno del lei.
In Italy, students and professors address each other formally.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'Lei' as 'Lady-like' language - formal and proper
- Remember that 'darsi del lei' contains 'lei' (she) because you're speaking to someone as if they were a third person out of respect
- The phrase contains 'dar' (to give) - you're 'giving' respect through formal language
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Italian culture, the choice between formal ('Lei') and informal ('tu') address is significant and reflects social relationships, hierarchy, and respect. Using 'Lei' indicates formality, distance, or respect, while 'tu' suggests familiarity or closeness. The transition from formal to informal address often marks an evolution in relationships. In professional settings, with elders, or with strangers, formal address is typically expected until explicitly invited to use informal language.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'darsi del lei' refers to using formal address with each other, 'darsi del tu' means the opposite - to use informal address with each other.
Confused word:
Dopo qualche mese, i colleghi hanno cominciato a darsi del tu.
After a few months, colleagues began to address each other informally.
Notes: The choice between 'lei' and 'tu' reflects the level of formality, distance, or closeness in a relationship.
Mnemonic: Lei = Formal (like 'Lady'), Tu = Familiar (like 'Two' friends)
Explanation: 'Darsi del lei' is reciprocal (both people address each other formally), while 'dare del lei' is one-directional (one person addresses another formally).
Confused word:
Il giovane dà del lei al suo capo per rispetto.
The young man addresses his boss formally out of respect.
Notes: The reflexive form ('darsi') indicates reciprocity, while the non-reflexive form ('dare') indicates a one-way action.
Mnemonic: 'Darsi' contains 'si' (each other) indicating mutual action; 'dare' without 'si' is one-way