insomma
well, in short, so-so
Intermediate Adverb
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Pronunciation
/in.ˈsom.ma/
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Cultural Note
A wonderfully versatile Italian word. As a response to 'come stai?' it means 'not great' (more honest than 'bene'). As a conversation connector it means 'in short' or 'well.' With an impatient tone it expresses frustration ('insomma!' = 'come on already!'). Mastering its multiple tones is key.
📝 Example Sentences
Come stai? — Insomma...
How are you? — So-so...
Insomma, non sappiamo ancora cosa fare.
Well, we still don't know what to do.
Insomma, ti decidi o no?!
Well, are you going to decide or not?!