moltissimo
Lemma: moltissimo
Translation: very much; extremely; greatly; a great deal (adverb)
Etymology: Derived from 'molto' (much, very) with the superlative suffix '-issimo'. 'Molto' comes from Latin 'multus' (much, many), which shares roots with English words like 'multiple', 'multitude', and 'multiply'. The suffix '-issimo' is the Italian superlative ending (similar to English '-est') from Latin '-issimus', creating the sense of 'the most' or 'extremely'.
Example Usage
Ti ringrazio moltissimo per il tuo aiuto.
I thank you very much for your help.
Mi piace moltissimo la cucina italiana.
I like Italian cuisine very much.
Abbiamo lavorato moltissimo per finire il progetto.
We worked extremely hard to finish the project.
Questa canzone mi emoziona moltissimo.
This song moves me greatly.
Mi piace moltissimo questo film.
I like this movie very much.
Ha nevicato moltissimo quest'inverno.
It snowed a great deal this winter.
Sono moltissimo interessato alla tua proposta.
I am extremely interested in your proposal.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'molto' (much) with the '-issimo' ending making it 'the most much' or 'extremely much'
- Remember that '-issimo' in Italian is like '-est' in English (biggest, fastest) but even more emphatic
- Associate with 'multi-' in English (multiple, multitude) plus the superlative ending
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Italians often use intensifiers like 'moltissimo' in everyday speech to express enthusiasm or strong feelings. This reflects the expressive nature of Italian communication, where emotions are often emphasized through language.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Moltissimo' is the superlative form of 'molto'. While 'molto' means 'very' or 'much', 'moltissimo' intensifies this to 'extremely' or 'very much'.
Notes: The difference is one of intensity - 'moltissimo' expresses a stronger degree than 'molto'.
Mnemonic: The '-issimo' ending in 'moltissimo' makes it 'molto' on steroids!
Explanation: Both mean 'very much' but 'moltissimo' derives from 'molto' (much) while 'tantissimo' comes from 'tanto' (so much). They're often interchangeable but have slightly different nuances.
Confused word:
Ti voglio bene tantissimo.
I love you so very much.
Notes: In many contexts, these can be used interchangeably, though 'tantissimo' sometimes carries a slightly more emotional or emphatic tone.
Mnemonic: 'Moltissimo' connects to 'multiple/many', while 'tantissimo' relates to 'quantity/amount'.