Casualadjective
in gamba
capable, smart, talented
Literal Translation
"in leg"
Formal Equivalent
competente, capace, valido/a
Examples in Context
"La tua figlia è proprio in gamba, prende tutti voti alti."
"Your daughter is really smart, she gets top grades."
"Cercano gente in gamba per quel progetto."
"They're looking for capable people for that project."
⚠️
Cultural Note
One of the most versatile compliments in Italian. It praises someone's overall competence, intelligence, and reliability. Can be used by older people about younger ones without sounding condescending. Borderline between casual and acceptable in semi-formal contexts.
Want to practice Italian?
Take a free placement test and start with grammar exercises.