We have adopted a child.
'Adottato' = a-dot-TAH-to — four syllables. 'Adottare' = to adopt — a regular -are verb.
Use when adoption is part of your family story. Adoption in Italy, while less common than in some countries, is openly and warmly discussed. It is a statement of love and family choice.
'Adottare' = 'to adopt.' 'Abbiamo adottato' = passato prossimo with 'avere.' 'Un bambino' = a (generic) child. Italian adoptions are often international, which can add another layer to the family story.
È arrivato dall'Etiopia — ha cambiato la nostra vita.
He came from Ethiopia — he changed our lives.
Specifying origin — international adoption is common in Italy.
La nostra è una famiglia scelta.
Ours is a chosen family.
'Famiglia scelta' (chosen family) — a modern concept gaining acceptance.
Per noi è figlio/figlia in tutto e per tutto.
For us, he/she is a child in every sense.
Affirms the completeness of the parent-child bond regardless of biology.
Italy has a long tradition of international adoption, particularly from Ethiopia, Colombia, and Eastern Europe. Catholic charitable organisations have historically played a major role. Adopted children are fully integrated into Italian extended family life.