due passi
Lemma: due passi
Translation: a short walk; a stroll (phrase)
Etymology: This Italian phrase combines 'due' (two) and 'passi' (steps, the plural of 'passo'). While literally meaning 'two steps,' it's used idiomatically to refer to a short, leisurely walk. The word 'passo' derives from Latin 'passus' (step), which also gave English words like 'pace' and 'passage.' The metaphorical use of a small number ('due'/two) to indicate a brief activity is common in Italian expressions.
Example Usage
Dopo cena facciamo due passi?
Shall we take a short walk after dinner?
Ho bisogno di fare due passi per schiarirmi le idee.
I need to take a stroll to clear my head.
Il parco è a due passi da casa mia.
The park is a short walk from my house.
Usciamo a fare due passi, è una bella giornata.
Let's go out for a stroll, it's a beautiful day.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'due' (two) as a small number, indicating the walk is short - just 'two steps'
- Imagine taking just two steps out your door to remind yourself this refers to a brief, casual walk
- Connect 'passi' with English 'pace' to remember it refers to walking
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
The concept of 'fare due passi' (taking a short walk) is deeply embedded in Italian culture, especially in small towns and cities where evening strolls (passeggiate) are a common social activity. Italians often take walks after meals or in the evening as a way to socialize, digest food, and enjoy the outdoors. This phrase reflects the Italian appreciation for leisure time and the social aspect of even simple activities.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'due passi' refers to taking a short walk, 'a due passi' is a prepositional phrase meaning 'very close by' or 'a stone's throw away'
Notes: Both expressions use the imagery of 'two steps' but in different contexts - one for an activity, one for proximity.
Mnemonic: Remember: 'due passi' is what you do (an action), while 'a due passi' describes where something is (a location)
Explanation: Both phrases refer to taking a walk, but 'quattro passi' (four steps) sometimes implies a slightly longer walk than 'due passi' (two steps), though they're often used interchangeably
Confused word:
Mi piacerebbe fare quattro passi lungo il fiume.
I'd like to take a walk along the river.
Notes: In practice, most Italians use these expressions interchangeably to mean a casual, leisurely walk
Mnemonic: Due (2) is less than quattro (4), so 'due passi' might imply a shorter distance