A guide to saying it like a local

How to Say "January" in Italian

The Italian word for January, the first month of the year. Essential for planning.

gennaio

jen-NAH-yohneutral

A single phrase, broken down

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Use 'gennaio' when discussing dates, holidays, or events happening in January. For example, you might say 'Il mio compleanno è a gennaio' (My birthday is in January).

Alternatives

  • gennàioA more archaic or regional pronunciation, less common today.

Ways to get it wrong

Don't say 'genuino'

'Genuino' means genuine or authentic, not the month of January.

Pronounce the 'g' softly

The 'g' in 'gennaio' is soft, like the 'j' in 'jump', not a hard 'g' as in 'go'.

A small cultural note

January in Italy often brings the Epiphany holiday (La Befana) on the 6th, a significant tradition, especially for children.

Frequently asked

How do you say January in Italian?

The Italian word for January is 'gennaio'. It's the first month of the Gregorian calendar.

When is Epiphany in Italy?

Epiphany, or 'La Befana', is celebrated on January 6th. It's a major holiday, especially for children.

What's the weather like in Italy in January?

January is typically cold across Italy, with snow common in the mountains and rain in many cities. It's winter.