Learn Italian: Pur di arrivare all'apice, vuole scavalcare tutti. - Just to reach the apex, he wants to bypass everyone.

Pur di arrivare all'apice, vuole scavalcare tutti.

Just to reach the apex, he wants to bypass everyone.

Breakdown of Pur di arrivare all'apice, vuole scavalcare tutti.

Questions & Answers about Pur di arrivare all'apice, vuole scavalcare tutti.

How does 'pur di' change the meaning compared to just using 'per' (in order to)?

While per arrivare simply means 'in order to reach', pur di arrivare introduces an extreme condition. It translates to 'just to', 'at all costs', or 'even if it means'. It emphasizes that the person is willing to do something drastic or ruthless to achieve their goal.

Is there a rule about when I can use 'pur di' + infinitive like in this sentence?

Yes, as with many implicit clauses in Italian, the subject of the pur di action must be exactly the same as the subject of the main clause. Here, the person who wants to reach the top is the same person who wants to bypass everyone.

What is the literal meaning of scavalcare?

Literally, scavalcare means 'to climb over' or 'to step over' a physical obstacle, like a wall or a fence. Figuratively, as it is used here, it means to bypass someone, step on their toes, or go over their head to gain an advantage in a career or hierarchy.

Can I use apice to talk about reaching the top of a physical mountain?

You could, but it sounds quite formal or scientific. For physical mountains, Italians usually prefer words like la cima or la vetta. L'apice is almost always reserved for figurative peaks, such as the absolute height of one's career, success, or power.