Top 15 Sicilian Expressions Every Italian Should Know
If you’ve ever been to Sicily—or had the pleasure of talking to a Sicilian nonna—you’ll know that the island has a language of its own. The Sicilian dialect isn’t just colorful, it’s practically operatic. Let’s take a ride through 15 expressions that make Sicilian the most dramatic, passionate, and occasionally confusing dialect in Italy.
1. “Accura!”
Watch out! Or as your grandma would scream before you fall on the wet tiles.
2. “Cu mancia fa muddichi”
Literal: Those who eat, make crumbs.
Meaning: Mistakes are part of doing things. If you’re active, you’ll mess up once in a while.
3. “Finìu u munnu!”
The world has ended! Used sarcastically when someone overreacts. Like when your cousin finds out there’s no Nutella left.
4. “Tantu a dda finisci”
It’ll end up there anyway. Often used when someone tries too hard for something inevitable.
5. “Bedda matri!”
Holy mother! A versatile exclamation—from awe to horror, like when Palermo scores at the 94th minute.
6. “Futti futti ca Diu perduna a tutti”
Literal: Do wrong, God forgives everyone.
Meaning: Cynical, but widely used when people cut corners or cheat a little.
7. “Sugnu fattu a canzuna”
I’ve been made into a song – someone has publicly shamed or mocked you.
8. “U surici chi vasau u latti”
Literal: The mouse kissed the milk.
Meaning: Something strange or fishy is going on.
9. “A megghiu parola è chidda ca nun si dici”
The best word is the one left unsaid. Perfect Sicilian wisdom.
10. “Ti stai scantannu puru d’u vrazzu ruttu”
You’re afraid of the broken arm too – scared of something that’s already over.
11. “Scinni a terra!”
Come back to reality! Used when someone is dreaming too much or being unrealistic.
12. “A casa i to’ matri!”
Go back to your mother’s house – said jokingly when someone is being a pain.
13. “Mi pari ca ‘ntra stu menzu c’è ficatu”
Literal: There’s liver in this mix.
Meaning: Something’s off or suspicious.
14. “Stai mutu, ca si scummigghi!”
Shut up, you’re revealing yourself! Used when someone says too much.
15. “È megghiu u risu amaru, ca u chiantu duluriusu”
Better a bitter laugh than a painful cry. If that’s not Sicilian fatalism, what is?
Why You Should Learn Sicilian Expressions
Not only will you impress your friends, but you’ll also understand a huge part of Sicilian culture. These sayings carry centuries of history, emotion, and street wisdom.
Want to dive deeper? Check out our full collection of Sicilian sayings here or explore each one individually!
