far volare il tempo
Lemma: far volare il tempo
Translation: to make time fly; to pass time quickly; to make time go by fast (idiom)
Etymology: This Italian idiom combines 'far' (to make), 'volare' (to fly), and 'il tempo' (time). The metaphorical concept of time flying exists in many languages, including English 'time flies'. The verb 'volare' comes from Latin 'volare' (to fly), which is related to English words like 'volatile' and 'volant'.
Example Usage
La conversazione era così interessante che ha fatto volare il tempo.
The conversation was so interesting that it made time fly.
Quando sono con i miei amici, facciamo volare il tempo raccontando storie.
When I'm with my friends, we make time fly by telling stories.
Un buon libro fa volare il tempo durante un lungo viaggio.
A good book makes time fly during a long journey.
Mnemonics
- Imagine a clock with wings flying through the air
- Think of 'volare' as in the famous Italian song 'Volare' (to fly) - time is flying when you're having fun
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This expression is commonly used in Italian culture when discussing activities that make time pass pleasantly or quickly. It reflects the Italian appreciation for enjoyable activities and good company that make hours seem like minutes.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Far volare il tempo' means to make time pass quickly in an enjoyable way, while 'perdere tempo' means to waste time unproductively.
Confused word:
Non perdere tempo con queste sciocchezze.
Don't waste time with these nonsense things.
Notes: The key difference is that 'far volare il tempo' implies enjoyment and productivity, while 'perdere tempo' implies wastefulness.
Mnemonic: 'Volare' (flying) is positive and fast; 'perdere' (losing) is negative and wasteful.