Grammar Lesson 72

"Boh": Italians' favourite interjection

If you go to Italy, you’ll hear Italians often repeat this mysterious one-syllable word: “Boh”. Very exotic. It is pronounced like “beau” and its origins are vague. But one thing is clear: Italians love it. It means “I don’t know” – you can think of it as “dunno”.

Depending on the context, it can indicate uncertainty, indifference, but also reserve.

Examples:

“Cosa vuoi fare stasera?” “Boh. Tu?” / “What do you want to do tonight?” “Dunno. You?”

“Sei triste?” “Boh. Perché me lo chiedi?” / “Are you sad?” “Dunno. Why do you ask?”

“Ti piace?” “Boh.” / “Do you like it?” Dunno.”

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