Looking up...
To speak without thinking or in a careless, unfounded manner, often saying things that lack substance or truth.
Invece di studiare, passava il tempo a parlare a vanvera con gli amici.
Instead of studying, he spent time talking nonsense with his friends.
Non dare retta a Marco quando parla a vanvera di politica.
Don't listen to Marco when he talks nonsense about politics.
Often implies a lack of seriousness or responsibility in speech.
Use 'parlare a vanvera' only when someone is speaking carelessly or without knowledge. It’s not appropriate for polite disagreement or hypothetical discussion.
This idiom is informal and critical. Avoid using it in formal settings or when referring to yourself.
The phrase combines 'parlare' (to speak) with 'vanvera,' an archaic Italian word meaning 'in vain' or 'without purpose.' Historically, 'vanvera' derives from the Latin 'vanus' (empty, vain). The idiom emerged in the 17th century, reflecting the idea of speaking empty words.
Used in casual conversation to criticize someone for speaking without thought or evidence. Often implies the speaker is being frivolous or irresponsible.