The Lombard Language: Speak Like a True Milanese

Italy is a country with many different languages and dialects. One of these is Lombard, spoken in the northern region of Lombardy and in its capital, Milan—Italy’s economic center. Although dialects aren’t commonly used in the city center, learning a few Milanese expressions goes beyond vocabulary. It’s a way to connect with the city's unique mix of elegance, sarcasm, and energy. Whether you're strolling through Brera, riding the metro, or arguing about the Inter Milan derby, using a few dialect words can help you sound more like a local. Whether you're visiting Milan or just want to impress your friends, here’s a quick guide to speaking like a true Milanese.

Features of Lombard

The Open e
One of the key sounds in Lombard is the open e, a vowel that gives the dialect its distinctive rhythm and musical flow.

Articles with Nouns
In standard Italian, using articles with proper names is not allowed. However, Milanese often does it anyway, so you’ll hear people say la Maria or la Giorgia instead of just Maria or Giorgia. But be careful—they never use it when speaking directly to the person.

Common Words & Expressions

These are some common Lombard and Milanese terms and expressions you’ll hear on the street, on the tram, or from your Milanese friends:

Ue!

The classic Milanese shout to get someone’s attention. It works in almost any situation, whether you’re greeting someone or expressing surprise.

Pirla

A flexible insult meaning idiot or fool. Often used jokingly among friends.

Dané

The Milanese word for money.

Bagài

A friendly word meaning guy or boy. It’s casual and affectionate, like saying dude or kid, depending on the context.

Matel

A term for a small child, especially a toddler. Often used by grandparents.

Sciura

Much more than just a lady— a sciura is an elegant, often older Milanese woman.

Sciur

The male version of sciura. A respectable, well-dressed man.

Tusa

A casual and affectionate word for a young woman or girl.

Cadrega

This simply means chair, but it became iconic thanks to a famous scene in a film by Aldo, Giovanni e Giacomo, a well-known Italian comedy trio.

Scighera

Refers to the thick fog that often covers Milan, especially in winter.

Giargiana

A slightly snobbish Milanese term for outsiders, especially those who don’t understand the local way of doing things.

Bigiare

Slang for skipping school or cutting class.

Va a ciapà i rat

Literally Go catch the rats. This expression means Get lost or Go to hell. It’s very local, and perfect for when someone really annoys you.

Ciulare

A crude but common verb meaning to steal. It’s not very polite, so use it with caution.