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Italian Phrase

Ho ansia

/o ˈan.sja/
Meaning"I am anxious"
πŸ’‘

Meaning

This phrase literally translates to 'I have anxiety.' It is a common way to express that you are feeling nervous, stressed, or apprehensive about a situation.

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When to use

Use this phrase when you are feeling overwhelmed or nervous about an upcoming event like a test, a date, or a job interview. It is frequently used in casual conversation with friends and family.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Hoansia

1

Avere (Ho)

The verb 'avere' (to have) is used in Italian to express feelings and physical states where English often uses 'to be'.

2

Ansia

A feminine noun meaning anxiety. While 'Ho l'ansia' is more grammatically complete, 'Ho ansia' is a common shortened form in spoken Italian.

πŸ—¨In Conversation

A

Ho ansia per il colloquio di oggi.

I'm anxious about today's interview.

Non ti preoccupare, sei preparatissimo!

Don't worry, you are very well prepared!

B

βœ•Common Mistakes

  • Sono ansia

    In Italian, you 'have' (avere) anxiety rather than 'being' (essere) it.

  • Ho ansioso

    Ansioso is an adjective; you must use the noun 'ansia' with the verb 'avere'.

↔Alternatives

  • Sono ansioso

    I am anxious

  • Ho l'ansia

    I have the anxiety (very common colloquial form)

  • Sono preoccupato

    I am worried

it

Cultural Tip

In modern Italian slang, 'ansia' is used very loosely to describe any kind of stress. You might hear someone say 'Che ansia!' to describe a person who is being too demanding or a situation that is generally stressful.