molesto
Lemma: molesto
Translation: annoying; bothersome; troublesome; harassing; pestering; irritating; unwelcome (adjective)
Etymology: From Latin 'molestus' meaning 'troublesome' or 'annoying'. The Latin term is related to 'moles' meaning 'burden' or 'mass'. The English word 'molest' shares this root, though the English term has taken on a more specific and serious connotation related to harassment, particularly of a sexual nature, while the Italian term maintains the broader meaning of general annoyance or bother.
Mnemonics
- Think of someone who 'molests' you with constant questions or requests - they're being 'molesto' (annoying).
- Remember 'mole' + 'pest' = 'molesto' - like a pest that burrows into your peace of mind.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Italian, 'molesto' is commonly used in everyday language to describe annoying situations or people, without the strong sexual connotation that the English cognate 'molest' carries. It appears in legal contexts in phrases like 'atti molesti' (harassing acts) or 'comportamento molesto' (bothersome behavior).
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Molesto' means 'annoying' while 'modesto' means 'modest' or 'humble'.
This word:
Il suo atteggiamento molesto ha infastidito tutti.
His annoying attitude bothered everyone.
Confused word:
È una persona molto modesta nonostante il suo successo.
He is a very modest person despite his success.
Notes: The difference is just one letter (L vs D) but the meanings are completely different.
Mnemonic: 'Molesto' has an 'L' like 'loathsome', while 'modesto' has a 'D' like 'demure'.
Explanation: 'Molesto' means 'annoying' while 'mesto' means 'sad' or 'melancholy'.
This word:
Il suo comportamento molesto ha rovinato la festa.
His annoying behavior ruined the party.
Confused word:
Aveva uno sguardo mesto dopo aver ricevuto la notizia.
He had a sad look after receiving the news.
Notes: 'Molesto' contains the extra syllable 'mo-' compared to 'mesto'.
Mnemonic: 'Mesto' sounds like 'mesto' in English which can remind you of 'misty eyes' from sadness.