litigare

to argue

verb lee-tee-GAH-reh Rare

Origin: From Latin litigare, 'to dispute'.

Also means

to quarrel

Usage Note

Litigare specifically means to argue or quarrel — it is not a false friend of English 'litigate' (= fare causa, ricorrere in giudizio). It takes avere as auxiliary: hanno litigato tutta la sera. The noun is litigio (quarrel) and lite (dispute). Discutere implies a calmer discussion; litigare implies raised voices.

Examples

"I due fratelli litigano spesso."

Natural Translation

The two brothers often argue.

Related Words

Explore Italian by topic

ItalianNow

You're Welcome in Italian: 8 Ways Beyond Prego

You're welcome in Italian is more than prego: say figurati to friends, si figuri to strangers, di niente, non c'è di che, or grazie a te. Pick the right one.

June 9, 2026 6 min read

ItalianNow

Italian Articles: Il, Lo, La, I, Gli, Le Explained

Italian has seven words for 'the' — il, lo, la, i, gli, le — but it's two questions, not seven cases. Master gender, sound, and the lo/gli rule fast.

June 5, 2026 7 min read

ItalianNow

How to Order Coffee in Italy Like a Local

Order coffee in Italy like a local: say un caffè (not espresso), pay at the cassa first, drink al banco, and skip the latte trap. Phrases inside.

June 5, 2026 6 min read

ItalianNow

Essential Italian Travel Phrases (With Vorrei)

Vorrei means I would like — the politest, most useful Italian travel phrase. Learn five reusable frames to order, ask prices, and find your way in Italy.

June 5, 2026 5 min read