essere al settimo cielo

/ˈɛs.se.re al ˈsɛt.ti.mo ˈt͡ʃɛ.lo/
phraseIntermediate to be extremely happyidiom
What It Really Means
To be in a state of extreme happiness or bliss, often due to a significant positive event or achievement.
Literal Meaning
To be at the seventh heaven.
Literal Breakdown
essereto be+alat the+settimoseventh+cieloheaven
Mental Image
The mental image is of someone reaching the highest level of heaven, symbolizing the ultimate state of happiness.
When to Use
A person who has just received a promotion or won a significant award might be described as 'essere al settimo cielo' to express their overwhelming joy.
Cultural Note
This idiom reflects the medieval Christian belief in a multi-tiered heaven, with the seventh level being the highest and closest to God. The phrase has been used metaphorically in Italian for centuries to describe extreme happiness.
informal

To be in a state of extreme happiness or bliss, often due to a significant positive event or achievement.

Dopo aver ricevuto la notizia, era al settimo cielo.

After receiving the news, he was on cloud nine.

La coppia era al settimo cielo quando ha saputo di aspettare un bambino.

The couple was walking on air when they found out they were expecting a baby.

💡

This idiom is often used to describe an overwhelming sense of joy or euphoria.

Related Phrases

cadere dalle nuvoleidiom
to be brought back to reality
essere al settimo cieloidiom
to be extremely happy

💡Pro Tip

Usage Context

Use this idiom when describing someone's overwhelming happiness, especially after a significant positive event.

Gold Rule

Avoid Literal Interpretation

Do not use this phrase to describe physical locations or literal heavens. It is strictly metaphorical.

📖Word Origin

The phrase originates from the medieval belief that heaven had seven levels, with the seventh being the highest and closest to God. Being 'al settimo cielo' thus symbolizes reaching the pinnacle of happiness.

📝Usage Notes

This idiom is commonly used in informal contexts to express intense happiness. It is often used when someone experiences a major life event or achievement that brings them great joy.

Word Breakdown

essere
to be
verb
+
al
at the
preposition
+
settimo
seventh
adjective
+
cielo
heaven
noun
Dizionario Italiano-Inglese