avere il sangue blu
Lui si crede superiore perché dice di avere il sangue blu.
He thinks he's superior because he claims to have blue blood.
to be of noble birth or aristocratic lineage
Nel Medioevo, solo chi aveva il sangue blu poteva accedere a certe cariche.
In the Middle Ages, only those of blue blood could hold certain positions.
Nonostante sia ricco, non ha il sangue blu, quindi non può entrare in quel circolo esclusivo.
Despite being rich, he isn’t of noble birth, so he can’t enter that exclusive circle.
Originally referred to the pale skin of European nobility, who did not work outdoors and thus appeared to have blue veins, giving rise to the metaphor.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Literal vs. Figurative
Remember that 'avere il sangue blu' is purely figurative. In reality, blood is always red—this phrase is a historical metaphor for nobility.
Word Origin
The phrase originates from the medieval belief that the nobility’s pale skin, due to lack of outdoor labor, made their veins appear blue, symbolizing their 'blue blood' as opposed to the darker-skinned commoners.
Usage Notes
Used figuratively to describe someone who acts or believes they are superior due to perceived high social status. Often carries a sarcastic or critical tone.