Learn Hardcore Italian: Non bisogna scoraggiare chi vuole imparare una nuova lingua, anzi dobbiamo sostenerlo. - We must not discourage those who want to learn a new language; rather, we must support them.

It expresses a general rule or principle similar to “one must not” in English. This means that discouraging someone who wants to learn a new language is considered universally wrong or unnecessary, without specifying who is responsible.

Why is the pronoun “lo” used in “sostenerlo,” and what does it refer to?

The pronoun “lo” refers back to “chi vuole imparare una nuova lingua.” In Italian, the indefinite pronoun “chi” (meaning “whoever” or “those who”) is treated as singular, so even if it represents a group conceptually, it requires the singular masculine object pronoun “lo” in this context.

What role does the word “anzi” play in the sentence?

“Anzi” introduces a contrasting idea. While the first part of the sentence warns against discouragement, “anzi” emphasizes that, on the contrary or rather, we should actively support those who wish to learn a new language. It serves to strengthen the positive course of action.

How do the modal expressions “bisogna” and “dobbiamo” function differently in this sentence?

“Bisogna” is an impersonal modal verb that means “one must” or “it is necessary,” and it states a general prohibition against discouraging learners. In contrast, “dobbiamo” is the first person plural form of “dovere,” meaning “we must,” and it shifts the focus to an active commitment by the speaker (and their group) to support those learners.

Why is the verb “vuole” conjugated in the singular form in the clause “chi vuole imparare una nuova lingua”?

In Italian, the indefinite pronoun “chi” is treated as singular, so it routinely takes a singular verb form. Even though “chi” might refer to learners in a broad sense, it grammatically requires “vuole” (third person singular of “volere”) to agree with it.