mela — meaning in English: apple

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 'mela' in everyday conversations, such as discussing favorite fruits at a market or ordering a snack at a café. For example, you might hear someone say, 'Vorrei una mela, per favore' when asking for an apple.

Synonyms & nuances

While 'mela' specifically translates to 'apple', the word 'frutto' means 'fruit' in general. You would choose 'mela' when talking about apples specifically, but you might use 'frutto' when discussing various kinds of fruits.

Culture

The word 'mela' has roots in Latin, specifically from 'malum', which also means apple. In Italian culture, apples are often symbolic of health and prosperity, and they even appear in folklore, like the tale of the golden apple in mythology. Interestingly, Italy is one of the largest producers of apples in Europe, making 'mela' a staple in both language and cuisine.

FAQ

Q.What is the plural form of 'mela'?

The plural form of 'mela' is 'mele'. You would use this when talking about multiple apples, for example, 'Ho comprato tre mele' meaning 'I bought three apples'.

Q.How do you use 'mela' in a sentence?

'Mela' can be used in various contexts, such as 'La mela è rossa' which means 'The apple is red'. This is a simple way to describe the apple's color.

Q.Are there any idioms or expressions with 'mela'?

Yes! In Italian, there's a saying 'Una mela al giorno toglie il medico di torno', which translates to 'An apple a day keeps the doctor away'. It's commonly used to emphasize the importance of healthy eating.

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