The Roman Dialect: The Language of the Streets of Rome

Il Becomes Er

One of the first things you’ll notice when listening to Roman dialect is the way definite articles are used. In standard Italian, "il" (the masculine singular article) is replaced by "er" in the Roman dialect. So, "il libro" (the book) becomes "er libro".
This change happens in many other contexts, making the speech sound more relaxed and fluid. For example:

• Er ragazzo (the boy) instead of il ragazzo
• Er vino (the wine) instead of il vino

La Becomes A

Similarly, the feminine singular article "la" becomes "a" in the Roman dialect. It's a subtle change but one that adds a distinct Roman flavor to the language. For example:

• A casa (the house) instead of la casa
• A mamma (the mom) instead of la mamma

Un and Una Become 'N and 'Na

When speaking Roman dialect, you'll often hear the indefinite articles "un" and "una" shortened to "n" and "na". This change is part of the dialect’s tendency to simplify words and make them sound smoother and quicker. For example:

• 'N amico (a friend) instead of un amico
• 'Na pizza (a pizza) instead of una pizza

Dropping the Last re in Some Verbs

Another distinctive feature of Roman dialect is the tendency to drop the last "re" from certain verbs. This gives the dialect its characteristic sound, which can make the speech feel less formal and more casual. For example:

• Fa instead of fare (to do or make)
• Dì instead of dire (to say)
• Và instead of andare (to go)

Changing Prepositions

The Roman dialect also sees changes in how prepositions are pronounced. Here are a few common transformations:

• DI becomes DE – For example, de Roma instead of di Roma (from Rome)
• DEL becomes DER – For example, der vino instead of del vino (of the wine)
• A becomes AR – For example, ar bar instead of al bar (at the bar)
• DA becomes DAR – For example, dar medico instead of dal medico (from the doctor)
• NEL becomes NER – For example, ner giardino instead of nel giardino (in the garden)
• COL becomes COR – For example, cor padre instead of col padre (with the father)
• SUL becomes SUR – For example, sur tavolo instead of sul tavolo (on the table)

Ao as a Pronoun

In Roman dialect, when referring to themselves or others, the term "ao" is often used. It’s a colloquial and affectionate way of saying "I" or "me". It reflects the easy-going and familiar attitude that Romans are known for. For example:

• Ao, ce famo un giro? (Hey, shall we go for a walk?)
• Ao, che fai? (Hey, what are you doing?)

Annamo: A Common Way to Say Let's Go

"Annamo" is one of the most recognizable phrases in Roman dialect, and it’s used just like andiamo in standard Italian, meaning "let's go". However, in the Roman dialect, it carries a sense of camaraderie and excitement. For example:

• Annamo a casa (Let’s go home)
• Annamo a mangià (Let’s go eat)

The Word Daje and Its Meaning

"Daje" is another word that has become iconic in Roman dialect. It’s used as a form of encouragement or to express excitement or motivation. It’s similar to saying "come on" or "let’s go" in English, but with a distinctly Roman flair. It’s very common in both everyday speech and in sports contexts, where fans cheer on their team.

• Daje, ce la fai! (Come on, you can do it!)
• Daje, forza Roma! (Come on, go Roma!)

The Roman dialect is full of quirks that make it a beloved and integral part of the city’s cultural fabric. It’s not just a way of speaking—it’s a window into the history, energy, and character of Rome. From its unique pronunciations of articles and prepositions to its playful and informal tone, the dialect reflects the warmth and expressiveness of the Romans themselves.
Whether you're strolling through the streets of Trastevere or enjoying a meal in the heart of the city, the Roman dialect will give you an added layer of appreciation for Rome’s vibrant culture. So, next time you visit, try slipping a few Roman expressions into your conversation—you’ll fit right in and perhaps even earn a smile from the locals!