What Does “Avere un diavolo per capello” Mean?
The literal translation of “avere un diavolo per capello” is “to have a devil for each hair.” In everyday Italian, this phrase is used to describe someone who is extremely angry, agitated, or irritated. It conjures an image of a person so enraged that it seems as if every hair on their head is possessed by a devil, making them bristle with fury.
The Origins of the Expression
Italian idioms often have fascinating origins rooted in history, literature, or folklore. The phrase “avere un diavolo per capello” dates back to at least the 19th century. The devil, or diavolo, has long symbolized mischief, chaos, and uncontrollable emotion in Italian culture. Hair, on the other hand, represents something personal and visible to everyone. By combining these two elements, the expression vividly illustrates someone whose anger is so intense that it seems uncontrollable—like having countless devils dancing on their head, pulling at every strand.
Why Use Such a Vivid Image for Anger?
Italians are known for their expressive language, and this idiom is a perfect example. Rather than simply saying someone is angry, “avere un diavolo per capello” paints a mental picture that captures the intensity and outward signs of rage. When someone is furious, their hair might stand on end, their face might flush, and their gestures become animated—almost as if invisible devils are provoking them. This vivid image makes the idiom memorable and effective in communication.
How is the Phrase Used in Conversation?
Understanding when and how to use “avere un diavolo per capello” will help you sound more like a native speaker. Here are some examples:
- Quando ha saputo la notizia, aveva un diavolo per capello.
When he heard the news, he was absolutely furious. - Stamattina il capo aveva un diavolo per capello, meglio non disturbarlo.
This morning the boss was in a terrible mood, best not to disturb him.
As you can see, this expression is used to describe someone’s state of mind, typically when they are reacting to a negative or frustrating situation.
Similar Expressions in Other Languages
Every language has its own way of describing anger, but few are as imaginative as the Italian idiom. In English, you might say someone is “seeing red” or “blowing their top,” but these don’t quite capture the same visual drama as having a devil for every hair. If you enjoy learning about idiomatic expressions, you’ll find that Italian is full of creative phrases that offer unique insights into the culture—something we celebrate at Talkpal on our AI language learning blog.
Tips for Using Italian Idioms Effectively
- Practice in context: Try using idioms like “avere un diavolo per capello” in your conversations or writing to get comfortable with their usage.
- Listen for them: Pay attention when Italians speak, especially in movies or TV shows, to hear how idioms naturally fit into dialogue.
- Understand the emotion: Idioms often express strong feelings or opinions, so use them when you want to add emphasis or color to your language.
Conclusion
Idiomatic expressions like “avere un diavolo per capello” make learning Italian both fun and challenging. By delving into the meanings and origins of such phrases, you not only enrich your vocabulary but also deepen your appreciation for Italian culture. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, embracing idioms will help you communicate more naturally and vividly. Don’t forget to check out more insights and tips on the Talkpal blog, your companion in mastering Italian and other languages.
