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non sapere che pesci pigliare
/non ˈsaːpere ke ˈpeʃʃi piɡˈɡlaːre/◆idiom
not know what to do
Non so più che pesci pigliare, ho perso il lavoro e non trovo un altro impiego.
I don’t know what to do anymore, I’ve lost my job and can’t find another one.
informal
to be at a loss about how to proceed or act in a confusing or difficult situation
Quando ho visto che il computer non funzionava più, non sapevo che pesci pigliare.
When I saw the computer wasn’t working anymore, I didn’t know what to do.
Non sapere che pesci pigliare in una situazione del genere è normale.
Not knowing what to do in a situation like this is normal.
Used when someone is overwhelmed by a problem and lacks clear solutions.
Collocations
non sapere che pesci pigliarenot know what to doche pesci pigliarewhat to do
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
When to use
Use 'non sapere che pesci pigliare' when someone is genuinely overwhelmed by a problem and cannot figure out a solution, especially in everyday, informal situations.
Gold Rule
Avoid literal translation
Do not translate this phrase word-for-word. Instead, use idiomatic English equivalents like 'not know what to do' or 'be at a loss.'
Word Origin
The phrase literally translates to 'not knowing which fish to catch,' reflecting the idea of being so confused that one cannot even decide on a basic action, like choosing which fish to catch in a market. The imagery stems from the unpredictability of fishing, where success depends on chance and skill.
Usage Notes
This idiom is used in informal contexts to express helplessness or indecision. It is not used in formal writing or professional settings.
Word Breakdown
non sapere
not to know
phraseche
what
relative pronounpesci
fish (plural)
nounpigliare
to catch
verbDizionario Italiano-Inglese