Purtroppo
ADVERB
Meaning and English translation 🔖
Unfortunately
🇬🇧 "Purtroppo" is an adverb expressing regret, disappointment, or dismay, often used to preface unfortunate news or events.
🇮🇹 "Purtroppo" è un avverbio che esprime rammarico, delusione o dispiacere, ed è spesso usato per introdurre notizie o eventi spiacevoli.
Indeed, if you google “purtroppo,” you will find many results of people asking how this word is written.
Example sentences 💬
Purtroppo, non possiamo partecipare alla festa.
Unfortunately, we cannot attend the party.
Il concerto è stato annullato, purtroppo.
The concert has been canceled, unfortunately.
Purtroppo, il meteo prevede pioggia tutto il giorno.
Unfortunately, the weather forecast predicts rain all day.
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Where does the word purtroppo come from? 🔎
Purtroppo comes from the Italian words “pure" [even if] and "troppo" [too much], originally forming the phrase “pure se è troppo” [even if it is too much]. This etymology reflects a deeper, more empathetic expression compared to its synonyms like "sfortunatamente" [unfortunately, with a connotation of bad luck] or "disgraziatamente/tragicamente" [tragically, implying serious misfortune].
Unlike its harsher synonyms, purtroppo carries a more human and participative tone. It doesn't merely observe misfortune but rather emphasizes the burden it places on those involved, making it a poignant and heartfelt expression of regret in everyday Italian.
Did you know that... 🤓
Impress your italian friends with curious facts about Italy and its culture
The Italian painter Oddine Guarnieri explored the emotional depth of purtroppo in his painting, which is also titled "Purtroppo." This artwork delves into the themes of melancholy and resignation, visually interpreting the heavy-heartedness that the word often conveys. Guarnieri's use of somber colors and expressive forms captures the essence of "purtroppo" as more than just a word but a profound human experience.
