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essere svagato
/ˈɛs.se.re svaˈɡa.to/
to be absent-minded
Mario è svagato oggi, non ascolta quello che gli dico.
Mario is absent-minded today; he's not listening to what I'm saying.
informal
To be distracted or not focused on the present moment, often due to daydreaming or preoccupation.
Non riesco a concentrarmi perché sono svagato tutto il giorno.
I can't concentrate because I've been absent-minded all day.
Era così svagato che ha dimenticato le chiavi a casa.
He was so absent-minded that he forgot his keys at home.
Commonly used to describe someone whose mind is wandering, often in a gentle or sympathetic way.
Collocations
essere molto svagatoto be very absent-mindedsembrare svagatoto seem absent-minded
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoiding confusion with 'essere svogliato'
'Essere svogliato' means 'to be unmotivated' or 'to lack enthusiasm,' while 'essere svagato' refers to being distracted or absent-minded. They are not interchangeable.
Gold Rule
When to use 'essere svagato'
Use this phrase when someone is mentally elsewhere, not necessarily lazy or uninterested. It’s about focus, not effort.
Word Origin
From the verb 'essere' (to be) + 'svagato' (past participle of 'svagare', meaning 'to distract' or 'to amuse oneself'). 'Svagato' derives from 'svago' (pastime, distraction), from the Latin 'evagari' (to wander, to roam).
Usage Notes
Used to describe temporary or habitual absent-mindedness. Often implies a gentle reproach rather than strong criticism. Common in casual conversation.
Word Breakdown
essere
to be
verbsvagato
distracted, absent-minded
adjectiveDizionario Italiano-Inglese