Top ten English words adopted by Italians

English-speakers have for years adopted Italian words, including everything from "diva" to "mafia", but now the linguistic tables have turned. The Local takes a look at some of the most common - and most unexpected - English words creeping into the Italian language.

Published: 22 April 2014 18:27 CEST

Top ten English words adopted by Italians

Italians have largely shunned "fine settimana" in favour of the English-language "weekend". Weekend photo: Shutterstock

The English language is encroaching on Italian life at every corner, from the business world to the bar.

Italians can now spend their “weekend” at a “party”, their workdays in “meetings”, and settle down to watch a “sitcom” in the evening.

Even the politicians are anglicizing their vocab, with Prime Minister Matteo Renzi launching a “Jobs Act”.

Italian youth also seem to believe that the occassional English word will improve their street cred, with many taking “selfies” or boasting about their “sexy” girlfriend or boyfriend.

IN PICTURES: Top ten English words adopted by Italians

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