in bianco
Lemma: in bianco
Translation: blank; white; plain; without sauce; unfilled; unsigned (idiom)
Etymology: This Italian idiom combines 'in' (in) with 'bianco' (white). 'Bianco' derives from Germanic 'blank' meaning 'shining, white, bright' which also gave English the word 'blank'. The idiom has evolved to describe something empty, plain, or without its usual contents or characteristics.
Example Usage
Ho firmato un assegno in bianco.
I signed a blank check.
Preferisco la pasta in bianco quando sono malato.
I prefer plain pasta when I'm sick.
Ho passato una notte in bianco pensando ai miei problemi.
I spent a sleepless night thinking about my problems.
Mi ha dato un foglio in bianco.
He gave me a blank sheet of paper.
Mnemonics
- Think of a 'blank' page which is white and empty - 'in bianco' similarly refers to something plain or unfilled.
- Connect 'bianco' (white) with the English word 'blank' which shares the same Germanic root.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Italian cuisine, 'in bianco' often refers to dishes prepared without tomato sauce, typically dressed simply with olive oil, butter, or cheese. 'Pasta in bianco' is a common simple dish given to children or people with upset stomachs. The expression 'notte in bianco' (sleepless night) comes from medieval knights who would spend the night before being knighted in prayer and meditation, dressed in white.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'In bianco' refers to something blank, plain or without its usual contents, while 'al bianco' typically refers to a cooking method with white sauce or white wine.
Confused word:
Pesce al bianco è cucinato con vino bianco.
Fish 'al bianco' is cooked with white wine.
Notes: Both expressions use 'bianco' (white) but with different prepositions that change the meaning.
Mnemonic: 'In bianco' = blank/empty; 'al bianco' = with white (sauce/wine).