Expressing Physical Sensations

Expressing Physical Sensations in Italian

At the B1 level, simply saying "sono malato" isn't enough. In Italian, many physical states and sensations are expressed using the verbs avere (to have) and fare (to make/do) rather than the English verb "to be".

1. Using Avere for Physical States

Instead of saying "I am thirsty", Italians say "I have thirst" (ho sete). Common expressions include:

• Avere fame – to be hungry
• Avere sete – to be thirsty
• Avere sonno – to be sleepy
• Avere freddo / caldo – to be cold / hot
• Avere mal di... – to have a pain in... (e.g., ho mal di testa - I have a headache)

2. Using Fare for Physical Sensations

We use fare when a body part hurts or causes a specific sensation:

• Fa male – it hurts (e.g., mi fa male la schiena - my back hurts)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't say: Sono freddo to mean "I am cold" (this means you are cold-hearted as a person!).
Do say: Ho freddo (I feel cold).