proprio così
Lemma: proprio così
Translation: exactly; precisely; that's right; just so; exactly so (phrase)
Etymology: This Italian phrase combines 'proprio' (from Latin 'proprius' meaning 'one's own, particular, special') and 'così' (from Latin 'sic' meaning 'thus, in this way'). Together they form an emphatic affirmation. The word 'proprio' shares roots with English 'proper' and 'property', while 'così' is related to concepts of manner or method.
Example Usage
Quindi hai deciso di trasferirti a Roma? Proprio così, ho trovato lavoro lì.
So you've decided to move to Rome? That's right, I found a job there.
Il treno parte alle nove? Proprio così.
The train leaves at nine? Exactly.
Bisogna inserire la password e poi cliccare su 'Accedi'? Proprio così.
You need to enter the password and then click on 'Login'? That's right.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'proprio' as 'properly' and 'così' as 'so' - 'properly so' or 'exactly so'
- Imagine someone saying 'properly so!' with an emphatic Italian hand gesture
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is extremely common in Italian conversation as a way to express agreement or confirmation. It's used across all social contexts and age groups, making it an essential phrase for learners to master. Italians often accompany it with affirmative gestures like nodding.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'proprio così' means 'exactly so/that's right', 'proprio ora' means 'just now/right now'
Confused word:
È arrivato proprio ora.
He just arrived right now.
Notes: Both phrases use 'proprio' as an intensifier, but with different meanings based on the second word
Mnemonic: 'Così' points to manner (how something is), while 'ora' points to time (when something happens)
Explanation: 'Proprio così' is an affirmative 'exactly so', while 'così così' means 'so-so' or 'mediocre'
Confused word:
Come stai? Così così.
How are you? So-so.
Notes: The tone when saying these phrases is quite different - 'proprio così' is confident while 'così così' is often said with a shrug
Mnemonic: The repetition in 'così così' suggests wavering or uncertainty, while 'proprio così' is definitive