A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Small world" in Italian
Italian phrase for 'What a coincidence!' – perfect for unexpected encounters and surprising connections.
Che coincidenza!
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Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this when you bump into someone you know unexpectedly, or when you discover a surprising shared connection with a new acquaintance. It's a great way to acknowledge the 'small world' feeling.
Alternatives
- Ma guarda!More of an exclamation of surprise, less specific to coincidence.
- Incredibile!Expresses general disbelief or amazement, not just coincidence.
Ways to get it wrong
Don't say 'Piccolo mondo'
'Piccolo mondo' is a literal translation but not the idiomatic way Italians express 'small world'.
A small cultural note
Italians often appreciate and comment on unexpected connections and coincidences, seeing them as a sign of fate or good luck.
Frequently asked
How to say small world in Italian?
The most common way to express 'small world' in Italian is 'Che coincidenza!'. This literally means 'What a coincidence!'.
When do Italians use Che coincidenza?
Italians use 'Che coincidenza!' when they unexpectedly meet someone they know or discover a surprising shared connection with someone new.
Is Che coincidenza formal or informal?
'Che coincidenza!' is a neutral phrase that works in most social settings. You can use it with friends, acquaintances, and even in slightly more formal situations.
