Abbassarti

Abbassarti is the reflexive infinitive form of the Italian verb abbassare, meaning to lower or bring down. It expresses an action that the subject performs on itself, as in lowering one's body or demeanor. The infinitive abbassarsi is used with reflexive pronouns (ti, mi, si) in dependent clauses or with modal verbs, for example devi abbassarti or dovresti abbassarti.

Grammatical notes and related forms: abbassarti appears when the subject is addressing the second person singular. The non-reflexive counterpart abbassare is used when the action is directed at something else (abbassare la testa, abbassare la voce). The imperative singular form to tell someone to perform the action on themselves is abbassati, while the passive or other person forms use the corresponding reflexive forms (mi abbasso, ti abbassi, si abbassa, ci abbassiamo, vi abbassate, si abbassano).

Etymology: abbassare derives from the Italian prefix ab- plus bassare, related to the Latin bassus meaning low. The reflexive form abbassarsi retains the same semantic core, extended to actions performed on the subject.

Usage and meanings: Literally, abbassarsi can mean bending or crouching to pass under an obstacle or to reduce height. Figuratively, it can mean humbling oneself or moderating one’s tone or stance. Examples include: “Abbassati per passare sotto quel ramo” (Lower yourself to pass under that branch); “Dovresti abbassarti un po’ e chiedere scusa” (You should humble yourself a bit and apologize); “Durante la trattativa, è utile abbassarsi e mostrare rispetto” (During the negotiation, it helps to lower oneself and show respect).

See also: abbassare, abbassarsi, abbassare la voce, umiliare.