di più
Lemma: di più
Translation: more; additionally; to a greater extent; further (adverb)
Etymology: Derived from the Italian preposition 'di' (of, from) and the comparative adjective 'più' (more). 'Più' comes from Latin 'plus' (more), which is also the root of English words like 'plus', 'plural', and 'surplus'. The combination creates an adverbial phrase that intensifies or adds to something.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'di più' as 'of more' - literally asking for or referring to more of something.
- The 'più' sounds like 'pew' - imagine wanting 'more pews' in a church.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
This is a very common adverbial phrase in Italian used in everyday conversation. It's one of the first comparative expressions that learners typically encounter.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'di più' is an adverbial phrase meaning 'more' or 'to a greater extent', 'più' alone is a comparative adjective or adverb meaning 'more'. 'Di più' is used when you want to emphasize the increase or addition.
Confused word:
Lui è più alto di me.
He is taller than me.
Notes: 'Di più' often follows verbs like 'sapere', 'parlare', 'mangiare', etc., while 'più' often precedes adjectives or is used in comparisons.
Mnemonic: Think of 'di più' as 'give me more' (with 'di' suggesting 'give'), while 'più' alone is just stating 'more' without the request.
Explanation: 'Di più' means 'more' in terms of quantity or degree, while 'in più' means 'in addition' or 'extra'.
Confused word:
Ho comprato due libri in più.
I bought two extra books.
Notes: 'In più' often refers to additional items or elements, while 'di più' refers to increasing the intensity or amount of an action.
Mnemonic: Think of 'in più' as 'in addition' (extra items), while 'di più' is about increasing an action or quality.