A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "My stepdad" in Italian
How to say 'my stepdad' in Italian, with usage notes and pronunciation.
Mio patrigno
MEE-oh pah-DREE-nyohneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this when introducing your stepfather to friends or family. It's also appropriate when discussing your family structure in general conversation.
Alternatives
- Mio padre acquisitoMore formal and descriptive, emphasizing the acquired relationship.
- Mio padre adottivoTechnically means 'adoptive father,' but sometimes used loosely for stepfathers.
Ways to get it wrong
Patrigno vs. Padre
Don't just say 'padre' (father), as it refers to your biological or primary father.
Pronunciation of 'gn'
The 'gn' in 'patrigno' makes a 'ny' sound, like in 'canyon', not a hard 'g'.
A small cultural note
While 'patrigno' is the correct term, Italians might sometimes use more descriptive phrases depending on the closeness of the relationship.
Frequently asked
how to say stepdad in italian
The most common way to say 'my stepdad' in Italian is 'mio patrigno'. This is a standard term used in most contexts.
is patrigno formal?
'Patrigno' is a neutral term and can be used in both casual and more formal settings. It's the standard word for stepfather.
what's the difference between patrigno and padre?
'Padre' means father, typically biological or adoptive. 'Patrigno' specifically refers to a stepfather, the husband of your mother.
