dolce metà
better half / sweetheart
Pronunciation
/ˈdol.tʃe me.ˈta/
Cultural Note
Dolce metà (literally 'sweet half') echoes the ancient Greek myth that humans were once whole beings split in two, doomed to search for their other half. Italians use it affectionately to refer to their partner, though it can also be used playfully or ironically. It's a warmer, more poetic alternative to 'compagno/compagna' (partner) or 'marito/moglie' (husband/wife).
📝 Example Sentences
Ti presento la mia dolce metà.
Let me introduce you to my better half.
Cerco ancora la mia dolce metà.
I'm still looking for my better half.
Lui è la mia dolce metà da vent'anni.
He's been my better half for twenty years.
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