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Italian frequency list

No. 942 in Italian

ossia

"Ossia" means "that is to say" or "or rather" in English.

In a sentence

  • Vorrei un animale domestico, ossia un gatto o un cane.

    I would like a pet, that is, a cat or a dog.

    Here, 'ossia' clarifies and specifies the examples of the general term 'pet'.

  • La soluzione migliore, ossia quella più rapida, sarà adottata immediatamente.

    The best solution, namely the quickest one, will be implemented immediately.

    Here, 'ossia' provides a specific detail about what is considered the best solution.

  • Dobbiamo risolvere questo problema, ossia trovare una soluzione che piaccia a tutti.

    We need to solve this problem, meaning find a solution that everyone likes.

    Here, 'ossia' conveys the meaning or interpretation of solving the problem.

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