ecco perché
Lemma: ecco perché
Translation: that's why; that is why; this is why; here's why (phrase)
Etymology: This phrase combines 'ecco' (here is/are, behold) from Latin 'eccum' (a combination of 'ecce' meaning 'behold' and 'hunc' meaning 'this') with 'perché' (why, because), which comes from Latin 'per' (through) + 'quid' (what). Together they form an expression used to introduce an explanation or reason.
Example Usage
Sono stanco, ecco perché voglio andare a casa.
I'm tired, that's why I want to go home.
Ecco perché non bisogna mai mentire.
This is why one should never lie.
Ha piovuto tutto il giorno, ecco perché le strade sono allagate.
It rained all day, that's why the streets are flooded.
Non ho studiato, ecco perché ho fallito l'esame.
I didn't study, that's why I failed the exam.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'ecco' as 'echo' - like an echo answers back, 'ecco perché' provides an answer to a question.
- Remember 'perché' sounds like 'per key' - this phrase gives you the key to understanding a situation.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This is a very common phrase in Italian conversation and writing, used to introduce explanations. It's often used in both casual conversation and formal contexts when presenting reasons or explanations.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Perché' alone means 'why' or 'because', while 'ecco perché' is a complete phrase meaning 'that's why' or 'this is why'.
Notes: 'Ecco perché' introduces the explanation, while 'perché' alone can either ask for a reason or provide one.
Mnemonic: 'Ecco perché' provides the complete explanation, while 'perché' alone is asking for one.
Explanation: 'Ecco' alone means 'here is/are' or 'behold', while 'ecco perché' specifically means 'that's why'.
Notes: 'Ecco' is used to present or point out something, while 'ecco perché' specifically introduces a reason or explanation.
Mnemonic: Think of 'ecco' as pointing to something physical, while 'ecco perché' points to a reason.