heypolyglot
Italian

soggezione

/soddʒetˈtsjo.ne/noun · feminineC1
Extended vocabulary · Vocabulary rank 7,041

Meaning

awe, unease, intimidation

  • a feeling of timid deference, unease, or intimidation in the presence of an imposing person or situation

In a sentence

La presenza del nuovo direttore mi mette sempre un po' di soggezione.

The new director's presence always makes me feel a bit intimidated.

Non avere soggezione: puoi parlare liberamente e fare domande.

Don't feel intimidated: you can speak freely and ask questions.

L'austero professore incuteva una forte soggezione a tutti gli studenti.

The austere professor inspired great intimidation in all the students.

Word forms (2)
WordWord forms
soggezionefeminine · singular
soggezionifeminine · plural

Usage notes

  • Most commonly used in the fixed expression 'mettere in soggezione' (to intimidate or make someone feel uneasy).
  • Expresses a respectful or shy awkwardness rather than terror or genuine panic.

Related words

Opposites

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