‘Figurati!’ an everyday expression you must learn

The Italian word “figurati” is a small but powerful expression that Italians use frequently in everyday conversation. It is highly versatile and can convey different nuances depending on the context. At its core, “figurati” is a way to downplay a situation, whether to reassure someone, dismiss thanks, express disbelief, or negate an assumption. Think of it as a friendly, informal way of saying “don’t worry,” “no problem,” or even “no way!” in English.

In this blog post, we’ll explore 7 common contexts where “figurati” is used, provide clear examples with translations, and offer practice exercises to help you master this essential Italian expression.

1. Figurati as “Don’t Mention It” or “No Problem”

This is perhaps the most common use of “figurati.” It’s often a polite response to thanks, indicating that the favor was no trouble at all.

Examples:

• A: Grazie per l’aiuto!
  (Thank you for the help!)
  B: Figurati!
  (Don’t mention it!)
  
• A: Ti ringrazio davvero!
  (I really thank you!)
  B: Figurati, non è stato nulla!
  (No problem, it was nothing!)

2. Figurati as “Don’t Worry”

“Figurati” can be used to reassure someone, telling them not to worry because the situation is not serious.

Examples:

• Figurati, non c’è bisogno di preoccuparsi!
  (Don’t worry, there’s no need to be concerned!)
  
• Figurati, non è un problema!
  (Don’t worry, it’s not a problem!)
  
• Figurati, non succederà nulla di grave!
  (Don’t worry, nothing serious will happen!)
  
• Figurati, non è una cosa così importante!
  (Don’t worry, it’s not such a big deal!)

3. Figurati as “I Don’t Believe It” or “No way!”

When expressing disbelief or surprise, sometimes sarcastically, “figurati” can mean “no way!” or “I don’t believe it!”

Examples:

• A: Ho sentito che Marco ha comprato una macchina nuova!
  (I heard Marco bought a new car!)
  B: Figurati! Non ha un soldo. Non ci credo!
  (No way! He doesn’t have a penny. I don’t believe it!)
  
• A: Dai, vieni con noi al concerto!
  (Come on, come with us to the concert!)
  B: Figurati, non ho tempo!
  (No way, I don’t have time!)
  
• A: Vieni a lavorare domani?
  (Are you coming to work tomorrow?)
  B: Figurati, è il mio giorno libero!
  (No way, it’s my day off!)

4. Figurati as “Of Course Not” or “Don’t be silly”

“Figurati” can also be used to reject an assumption or suggestion, similar to saying “of course not” or “don’t be silly.”

Examples:

• A: Mi stai dicendo che non hai fame?
  (Are you telling me you’re not hungry?)
  B: Figurati, ho una fame da lupo!
  (Of course not, I’m starving!)
  
• A: Non è che hai già finito tutto il lavoro, vero?
  (You haven’t finished all the work already, right?)
  B: Figurati, non ho nemmeno iniziato!
  (Of course not, I haven’t even started!)
  
• A: Sei sicuro di non essere stanco dopo una giornata così lunga?
  (Are you sure you’re not tired after such a long day?)
  B: Figurati, non mi sento per niente stanco!
  (Of course not, I don’t feel tired at all!)
  
• A: Non avrai intenzione di uscire stasera, giusto?
  (You’re not planning to go out tonight, right?)
  B: Figurati, ho bisogno di riposare!
  (Of course not, I need to rest!)
  
• A: Posso venire a casa tua oggi?
  (Can I come to your house today?)
  B: Figurati, stai scherzando! Oggi i miei genitori sono a casa.
  (Of course not, you’re joking! My parents are home today.)

Practice Exercises

Exercise 1

Choose the correct meaning of “figurati” in the following dialogues.

1. A: Grazie per avermi aiutato con il trasloco!
   B: Figurati!
   (a) Don’t mention it
   (b) I don’t believe it
   (c) Don’t be silly
   
2. A: Hai finito tutto il lavoro?
   B: Figurati, non ho nemmeno iniziato!
   (a) No problem
   (b) Of course not
   (c) Don’t worry
   
3. A: Ho sentito che hai vinto la lotteria!
   B: Figurati! Non è vero!
   (a) Don’t worry
   (b) No way!
   (c) Don’t mention it
   
4. A: Non sei arrabbiato per quello che è successo, vero?
   B: Figurati, non mi interessa!
   (a) Don’t worry
   (b) Of course not
   (c) I don’t believe it
   
5. A: Scusa se ti disturbo a quest’ora.
   B: Figurati, non è un problema!
   (a) No problem
   (b) Don’t be silly
   (c) No way
   
6. A: Hai intenzione di venire alla festa domani?
   B: Figurati, ho già altri piani!
   (a) Don’t mention it
   (b) No way!
   (c) Of course not
   
7. A: Sei sicuro di non aver dimenticato qualcosa?
   B: Figurati, ho controllato due volte!
   (a) Don’t worry
   (b) No problem
   (c) Don’t be silly
   
8. A: Hai sentito che Luca ha lasciato il lavoro?
   B: Figurati! Non ci credo!
   (a) Don’t worry
   (b) No way!
   (c) Of course not
   
9. A: Posso chiederti un favore?
   B: Figurati, dimmi pure!
   (a) Don’t mention it
   (b) No problem
   (c) Don’t be silly
   
10. A: Non ti senti stanco dopo tutto questo lavoro?
    B: Figurati, sono pieno di energia!
    (a) Of course not
    (b) No way
    (c) Don’t worry

Answer key:

1. Correct answer: (a) Don’t mention it
2. Correct answer: (b) Of course not
3. Correct answer: (b) No way!
4. Correct answer: (b) Of course not
5. Correct answer: (a) No problem
6. Correct answer: (b) No way!
7. Correct answer: (a) Don’t worry
8. Correct answer: (b) No way!
9. Correct answer: (b) No problem
10. Correct answer: (a) Of course not

Conclusion

“Figurati” is a wonderfully flexible expression that adds warmth, reassurance, and personality to Italian conversations. Whether you want to say “no problem,” “don’t worry,” or express disbelief, “figurati” is your go-to phrase. By understanding its different uses and practicing with real examples, you’ll sound more natural and confident when speaking Italian. So next time someone thanks you or makes a surprising statement, try responding with a friendly “figurati!” — it’s sure to make your Italian conversations more authentic and engaging.

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