magari
if only, I wish, maybe, perhaps
Intermediate Interjection
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Pronunciation
/ma.ˈɡa.ri/
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Cultural Note
One of the most beloved and untranslatable Italian words. As a standalone reply it expresses wishful longing ('if only!'). As an adverb it means 'maybe/perhaps.' From the Greek 'makarios' (blessed). Italians consider it one of their most beautiful words.
📝 Example Sentences
Ti piacerebbe vivere in Italia? — Magari!
Would you like to live in Italy? — If only!
Magari domani piove e non possiamo uscire.
Maybe it'll rain tomorrow and we can't go out.
Magari avessi più tempo libero!
If only I had more free time!