naturalmente
Lemma: naturalmente
Translation: naturally; of course; obviously; certainly (adverb)
Etymology: Derived from the feminine adjective 'naturale' (natural) + the adverbial suffix '-mente'. The suffix '-mente' in Italian corresponds to '-ly' in English and comes from Latin 'mens' (mind), used in the ablative case 'mente' to form adverbs. The word 'naturale' itself comes from Latin 'naturalis', from 'natura' (nature, birth, character), which is related to 'natus' (born), past participle of 'nasci' (to be born). The English cognate 'naturally' follows the same formation pattern.
Example Usage
Naturalmente, sono d'accordo con te.
Of course, I agree with you.
Parla italiano naturalmente, senza accento.
He speaks Italian naturally, without an accent.
Verrai alla festa? Naturalmente!
Will you come to the party? Of course!
Naturalmente, questo comporta dei rischi.
Naturally, this involves some risks.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'natural' + '-mente' (which means '-ly' in Italian) = 'naturally'
- Remember that '-mente' in Italian works like '-ly' in English for forming adverbs
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Used frequently in Italian conversation as a way to express agreement or to indicate that something is obvious or expected. It can also be used as a standalone response, similar to 'of course' in English.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'naturalmente' is an adverb meaning 'naturally' or 'of course', 'normale' is an adjective meaning 'normal' or 'usual'. They have related meanings but different grammatical functions.
Confused word:
È normale sentirsi stanchi dopo tanto lavoro.
It's normal to feel tired after so much work.
Notes: 'Naturalmente' can stand alone as a response, while 'normale' cannot.
Mnemonic: 'Naturalmente' ends with '-mente' like many Italian adverbs, while 'normale' is an adjective.
Explanation: Both are adverbs, but 'naturalmente' means 'naturally' or 'of course', while 'normalmente' means 'normally' or 'usually'. 'Naturalmente' often expresses obviousness or certainty, while 'normalmente' refers to what typically happens.
Notes: Both end in '-mente' because they are both adverbs, but they have different uses in conversation.
Mnemonic: Think of 'naturalmente' for expressing certainty (of course), and 'normalmente' for expressing routine (normally).