per
Lemma: per
Translation: for; through; by; per; via; during (preposition)
Etymology: From Latin 'per' meaning 'through, by means of, during'. This preposition has maintained its core meaning from Latin into modern Italian. It shares the same Latin root as the English prefix 'per-' seen in words like 'permeate' (to pass through) and 'persist' (to continue through time). The English word 'per' (as in 'per hour') is directly borrowed from Latin and has the same origin.
Example Usage
Questo regalo è per te.
This gift is for you.
Sono passato per il parco.
I passed through the park.
L'ho fatto per amore.
I did it for love.
Per favore, mi passi il sale?
Please, can you pass me the salt?
Lavoro per una grande azienda.
I work for a large company.
Viaggeremo per tre giorni.
We will travel for three days.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'per' as 'for' in English - they often have the same meaning and even sound somewhat similar.
- Remember 'per' in 'per hour' or 'miles per gallon' - it's the same word and concept in Italian.
- The 'per' in 'permit' (to allow through) connects to the Italian meaning of 'through'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
This is one of the most fundamental prepositions in Italian, used in countless expressions and contexts. Understanding its various uses is essential for basic communication in Italian.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'per' often means 'for' in the sense of purpose or destination, 'da' means 'from' or 'by' in the sense of origin or agent.
Confused word:
Questo regalo è da Maria.
This gift is from Maria.
Notes: Both prepositions are extremely common but serve different grammatical functions.
Mnemonic: Think: 'per' is for purpose (where something is going), 'da' is for departure (where something comes from).
Explanation: Both 'per' and 'a' can indicate direction, but 'per' suggests movement through or toward a destination with purpose, while 'a' simply indicates location or direction.
Confused word:
Vado a Roma domani.
I'm going to Rome tomorrow.
Notes: The distinction can be subtle and sometimes they can be interchangeable depending on context.
Mnemonic: 'Per' implies purpose or reason; 'a' just states direction.