quello

The Italian word "quello" is a pronoun and an adjective that essentially translates to "that" in English. It is used to refer to something or someone that is farther away in distance or time compared to the speaker.

Meaning and Usage:

1. As a demonstrative pronoun (meaning "that one"):

   • It is used to point out or indicate a specific thing or person not close to the speaker.
   • Example: "Prendi quello." — "Take that one."

2. As a demonstrative adjective (meaning "that"):

   • It modifies a noun, similar to the English "that."
   • Example: "Quello libro è interessante." — "That book is interesting."

Parts and Forms

• "Quello" changes form to agree in gender and number with the noun it refers to:
  • Masculine singular: quello (used before nouns starting with z, s + consonant, ps, gn), or quel (before other consonants)
  • Feminine singular: quella
  • Masculine plural: quelli
  • Feminine plural: quelle

Examples:

• Quello studente ("That student" — masculine singular)
• Quella casa ("That house" — feminine singular)
• Quei ragazzi ("Those boys" — masculine plural, used before most consonants)
• Quelle ragazze ("Those girls" — feminine plural)

Synonyms

• "Quel" / "Quella" / "Quei" / "Quelle": Other forms of "quello", used to agree correctly as above.
• "Codesto," "Costui," "Costoro": Less common or regional varieties meaning "that" or "those."
• In some contexts, "quello" could be replaced by "codesto" or "questo" depending on the proximity distinction (this vs. that).

Antonyms

• "Questo" (this): the direct opposite demonstrative meaning something close to the speaker.
  • "Questo libro" — "This book."

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Summary:

"Quello" functions as a demonstrative element pointing to something more distant or removed, forming a key part of everyday Italian communication.