fare le cose per bene
Lemma: fare le cose per bene
Translation: to do things properly; to do things well; to do things right; to do a good job (idiom)
Etymology: This Italian idiom combines 'fare' (to do/make), 'le cose' (things), and 'per bene' (properly/well). The expression 'per bene' literally means 'for good' but is used to indicate something done thoroughly and correctly. The phrase reflects the Italian cultural value placed on quality and proper execution.
Example Usage
Se vuoi che il progetto abbia successo, devi fare le cose per bene.
If you want the project to succeed, you need to do things properly.
Mia nonna mi ha sempre insegnato a fare le cose per bene in cucina.
My grandmother always taught me to do things properly in the kitchen.
Non abbiamo abbastanza tempo per fare le cose per bene.
We don't have enough time to do things properly.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'per bene' as 'for the benefit' of everyone - when things are done properly, everyone benefits.
- Imagine a traditional Italian craftsman carefully making something 'per bene' (properly) - taking time and care with each step.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This expression reflects the Italian cultural emphasis on quality and proper execution. In Italian culture, doing things properly often means following tradition, taking your time, and paying attention to details. This is especially important in contexts like cooking, craftsmanship, and social etiquette.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'fare le cose per bene' means 'to do things properly', 'fare del bene' means 'to do good' in the sense of helping others or doing charitable acts.
Confused word:
Mi piace fare del bene aiutando i bisognosi.
I like to do good by helping those in need.
Notes: Both expressions use forms of 'bene' (good/well) but in different contexts and with different prepositions.
Mnemonic: 'Per bene' focuses on the quality of execution, while 'del bene' focuses on moral goodness and helping others.
Explanation: 'Fare le cose per bene' refers to doing things properly, while 'essere per bene' describes someone who is respectable, decent, or proper.
This word:
Hai fatto le cose per bene con questo progetto.
You did things properly with this project.
Confused word:
Sono persone per bene, puoi fidarti di loro.
They are decent people, you can trust them.
Notes: Both use 'per bene' but with different verbs that change the meaning significantly.
Mnemonic: 'Fare' focuses on actions done properly, while 'essere' describes a person's character or reputation.