degustare
Lemma: degustare
Translation: to taste; to sample; to savor; to try (verb)
Etymology: From Latin 'degustare', composed of the prefix 'de-' (thoroughly, completely) and 'gustare' (to taste). The Latin 'gustus' (taste) shares the same Indo-European root as English 'choose' and is directly related to English 'gusto' (enthusiastic enjoyment) and 'disgust'. The 'gust-' root appears in many English words related to taste, such as 'gustatory'.
Example Usage
Abbiamo degustato diversi vini durante il tour della cantina.
We tasted several wines during the winery tour.
Lo chef ci ha invitato a degustare il nuovo menu.
The chef invited us to taste the new menu.
Degusta lentamente il cioccolato per apprezzarne il sapore.
Taste the chocolate slowly to appreciate its flavor.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'de-gust-are' as 'thoroughly tasting' something, where 'gust' connects to English 'gusto' (enthusiasm).
- Remember that 'degustare' sounds similar to 'disgust' but means the opposite - to enjoy tasting something rather than finding it repulsive.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Frequently used in Italian food and wine culture. Italy has a strong tradition of food and wine tasting events (degustazioni), and the term is particularly common in gastronomic contexts. Wine tasting (degustazione di vini) is an important cultural practice in Italy's wine-producing regions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'degustare' means 'to taste' or 'to sample' with positive connotations, 'disgustare' means 'to disgust' or 'to repel' with negative connotations.
Notes: The prefix makes all the difference: 'de-' intensifies the action positively, while 'dis-' negates or reverses it.
Mnemonic: 'Degustare' has 'gust' (taste) with 'de' (thoroughly), while 'disgustare' has 'dis' (negative prefix) + 'gustare', meaning to cause distaste.
Explanation: 'Degustare' specifically refers to tasting something carefully to evaluate it, while 'gustare' is more general and means to taste or enjoy something.
Notes: 'Degustare' is often used in professional contexts like wine or food evaluation, while 'gustare' is more casual.
Mnemonic: Think of 'degustare' as a more deliberate, analytical form of 'gustare' - the 'de' prefix adds thoroughness.