Italian Phrase
Li invidi?
Meaning
This is a direct question used to ask if someone feels envy toward a group of people. The word 'li' is a direct object pronoun representing 'them' (masculine or mixed-gender), and 'invidi' is the second-person singular form of the verb 'invidiare'.
When to use
This phrase is typically used in informal conversations when discussing the achievements or possessions of others. It is used to gauge a friend or acquaintance's reaction to someone else's good fortune.
β¦Grammar Breakdown
Liinvidi
Direct Object Pronoun (Li)
The pronoun 'li' refers to a plural masculine or mixed-gender group and always precedes the conjugated verb in this structure.
Present Tense (Invidi)
This is the 'tu' (you) form of the regular -are verb 'invidiare'. Note that the 'i' at the end indicates the second-person singular.
π¨In Conversation
Hanno appena comprato una villa al mare.
They just bought a villa by the sea.
Davvero? E tu li invidi?
Really? And do you envy them?
βCommon Mistakes
Gli invidi?
Use 'li' as the direct object pronoun for 'them'. 'Gli' is typically used as an indirect object meaning 'to him' or 'to them'.
Tu invidi li?
In Italian, unstressed object pronouns like 'li' must be placed before the conjugated verb.
βAlternatives
Provi invidia per loro?
Do you feel envy for them?
Sei invidioso?
Are you envious?
Cultural Tip
In Italy, envy is a common topic of social observation. While 'invidia' is one of the seven deadly sins, people often distinguish between 'invidia sana' (healthy admiration) and 'invidia cattiva' (malice). Using this phrase requires a close relationship to avoid sounding accusatory.