per bene
Lemma: per bene
Translation: properly; thoroughly; well; decently; respectably (adverb)
Etymology: This Italian expression combines the preposition 'per' (for, through) with the noun 'bene' (good, well-being), literally meaning 'for good' or 'through good'. The word 'bene' derives from Latin 'bene', which shares roots with English words like 'benefit', 'benevolent', and 'benefactor'. The combination creates an adverbial phrase that indicates something done thoroughly or properly.
Example Usage
Devi pulire la casa per bene prima che arrivino gli ospiti.
You need to clean the house properly before the guests arrive.
È una famiglia per bene.
They are a respectable family.
Ho studiato per bene per l'esame.
I studied thoroughly for the exam.
Voglio conoscere per bene questa città.
I want to get to know this city well.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'per' as 'for' and 'bene' as 'good' – doing something 'for good' means doing it properly.
- Connect it to English 'benefit' – something done 'per bene' benefits from being done thoroughly.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Italian culture, 'per bene' can also describe a person or family of good moral standing and respectability. Being 'per bene' is highly valued in traditional Italian society, where maintaining appearances and respectability is important.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'per bene' means 'properly' or 'thoroughly', 'per il bene' means 'for the good of' or 'for the benefit of'.
Notes: 'Per bene' is an adverbial phrase describing how something is done, while 'per il bene' is followed by a complement indicating who benefits.
Mnemonic: 'Per bene' has no article, meaning 'properly'; 'per il bene' includes 'il' (the), meaning 'for the good of' something specific.
Explanation: 'Per bene' is an adverbial phrase meaning 'properly/thoroughly', while 'bene' alone is simply the adverb 'well'.
Confused word:
Hai fatto bene a chiamare.
You did well to call.
Notes: 'Per bene' often implies more thoroughness and completeness than simply 'bene'.
Mnemonic: Think of 'per bene' as more emphatic than just 'bene' – it's not just 'well' but 'thoroughly well'.