Learn Hardcore Italian: Non scherzare con i sentimenti di ognuno, perché anche un gesto semplice può ferire. - Don’t joke with everyone’s feelings, because even a simple gesture can hurt.

In this context, scherzare means “to joke” or “to kid.” Here it is used in the negative imperative form, instructing someone not to engage in lighthearted behavior that could belittle others’ emotions.

How does the phrase con i sentimenti di ognuno function grammatically, and what does it signify?

This phrase breaks down as follows: con means “with,” i sentimenti translates to “the feelings,” and di ognuno means “of each one” or “everyone’s.” Together, it signifies that the feelings being referenced belong individually to every person, emphasizing that one should be cautious when dealing with the emotional aspects of others.

What role does perché play in this sentence?

Perché functions as a causal conjunction meaning “because.” It connects the two parts of the sentence by explaining the reason behind the command—not to joke with people’s feelings—as even a small act or gesture can have unintended harmful consequences.

What does the clause un gesto semplice può ferire imply about our actions?

The clause un gesto semplice può ferire means “even a simple gesture can hurt.” It implies that even minor or seemingly insignificant actions can cause emotional harm, underlining the idea that our behavior towards others’ feelings should be handled with care and thoughtfulness.

Why is the negative imperative Non scherzare used, and how is it formed in Italian?

The negative imperative Non scherzare is used to give a direct command, telling someone not to joke or meddle with others’ feelings. In Italian, forming a negative imperative typically involves placing non before the verb in its base form. This construction clearly communicates a prohibition, making the instruction both direct and emphatic.