ma va
Lemma: ma va
Translation: come on; get out of here; no way; yeah right (phrase)
Etymology: This Italian expression combines 'ma' (but) and 'va' (it goes/goes away), from the verb 'andare' (to go). It evolved from the longer expression 'ma va via' (but go away) or 'ma va là' (but go there), used to dismiss something as unbelievable or ridiculous. The phrase has become a standalone idiomatic expression conveying disbelief or dismissal.
Example Usage
"Ho vinto alla lotteria!" "Ma va, non ci credo!"
"I won the lottery!" "No way, I don't believe it!"
"Sono stato scelto come attore per un film di Hollywood." "Ma va!"
"I've been chosen as an actor for a Hollywood movie." "Yeah right!"
Ma va, è impossibile che abbia detto questo.
Come on, it's impossible that he said that.
Mnemonics
- Think of someone saying 'but go!' (ma va) when they don't believe what you're saying - they're dismissing it.
- Imagine someone waving their hand dismissively while saying 'ma va' - they're brushing off what was just said.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This expression is extremely common in everyday Italian conversation. It's often accompanied by specific hand gestures, particularly the typical Italian hand gesture with fingers pinched together and hand moving up and down. The tone and context determine whether it's used playfully or dismissively. It's a quintessential example of Italian expressiveness in conversation.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'ma va' expresses disbelief or dismissal, 'va bene' means 'okay' or 'all right' and expresses agreement or acceptance.
Notes: The tone of voice is crucial: 'ma va' is often said with an exaggerated intonation to express disbelief, while 'va bene' is typically said with a neutral or affirmative tone.
Mnemonic: 'Ma va' has the 'ma' (but) which signals contradiction or disbelief; 'va bene' has 'bene' (good/well) which signals acceptance.
Explanation: 'Ma va' is an expression of disbelief, while 'va via' literally means 'go away' and is used as a command to tell someone to leave.
Notes: 'Ma va' is always an expression, while 'va via' can be a literal instruction to leave.
Mnemonic: 'Ma va' dismisses an idea; 'va via' dismisses a person or animal physically.