Very Informalphrase
avere le palle
to have guts, to be brave/bold
Literal Translation
"to have the balls"
Formal Equivalent
avere coraggio, essere coraggioso/a
Examples in Context
"Hai le palle a dire la verità al capo!"
"You've got guts telling the truth to the boss!"
"Quella ragazza ha le palle, si è lanciata col paracadute."
"That girl has guts, she went skydiving."
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Cultural Note
Vulgar origin but widely used in casual conversation, even in mixed company. Used for both men and women despite the masculine imagery. Implies courage and boldness. Avoid in formal settings.
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