discorrere
Lemma: discorrere
Translation: to talk; to speak; to converse; to discuss; to discourse (verb)
Etymology: From Latin 'discurrere', meaning 'to run about' or 'to run to and fro', composed of 'dis-' (apart, in different directions) and 'currere' (to run). Over time, the meaning evolved from physical movement to the movement of words and ideas. The English cognate 'discourse' shares this Latin root, as does 'current' (flowing water) and 'cursor' (something that runs across a screen).
Example Usage
Abbiamo discorso per ore sul futuro dell'azienda.
We talked for hours about the future of the company.
Mi piace discorrere con te di filosofia.
I like to discuss philosophy with you.
Discorrevano animatamente quando sono entrato.
They were talking animatedly when I entered.
Non è il momento di discorrere di queste cose.
This is not the time to talk about these things.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'discourse' in English - a formal discussion or speech.
- Imagine ideas 'running around' ('currere') between people as they talk.
- The 'dis' prefix suggests the distribution of words between speakers.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Italian culture, 'discorrere' often implies a more thoughtful or extended conversation than the more common 'parlare'. It can suggest a discussion with some depth or purpose, rather than casual chatting. In some contexts, especially literary ones, it carries a slightly more formal tone.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'discorrere' means to talk or converse generally, 'discutere' specifically means to discuss or debate, often implying disagreement or a more formal exchange of views.
This word:
Abbiamo discorso di vari argomenti durante la cena.
We talked about various topics during dinner.
Notes: 'Discorrere' is often more neutral and can refer to pleasant conversation, while 'discutere' often implies more intensity or focus on resolving different viewpoints.
Mnemonic: 'Discutere' contains 'cut' - imagine cutting through arguments in a debate; 'discorrere' contains 'corso' (course) - imagine words flowing in a course between people.
Explanation: 'Discorrere' means to talk or converse, while 'correre' simply means 'to run' physically.
Notes: The etymological connection between these words shows how language concepts often derive from physical actions.
Mnemonic: Remember that 'discorrere' has the prefix 'dis-' which transforms the physical running ('correre') into the running of words and ideas.