fare bella figura
to make a good impression
Pronunciation
/ˈfare ˈbɛlla fiˈɡura/
Cultural Note
Fare bella figura is one of the most important concepts in Italian culture. It encompasses appearance, behavior, hospitality, and social grace. It extends to how you keep your home, how you dress, how you serve food to guests, and how you present yourself in public. Its opposite, 'fare brutta figura' (making a bad impression), is something Italians actively avoid.
📝 Example Sentences
Voglio fare bella figura con i tuoi genitori.
I want to make a good impression on your parents.
In Italia, fare bella figura è fondamentale.
In Italy, making a good impression is fundamental.
Ha cucinato una cena incredibile per fare bella figura.
She cooked an incredible dinner to make a good impression.