The Italian Art of Making Do: Arrangiarsi

The espresso machine sputtered, coughed, and died mid-brew, leaving my Roman friend, Giulia, with a half-full cup and a shrug that spoke volumes.

It was a Tuesday morning in Testaccio, and the aroma of coffee had just begun to fill Giulia's tiny kitchen when the machine went silent. “Ah, eccolo,” she sighed, tapping the unresponsive buttons. “Si è rotto ancora.” It had broken again. My Anglo-Saxon brain immediately went to warranty cards, repair shops, and perhaps, a new machine. Giulia, however, just walked to a high shelf, pulled down an old, slightly dented moka pot, and started grinding coffee beans by hand.

This wasn't frustration; it was a familiar dance. Within minutes, the little stovetop pot was gurgling, and a richer, more robust coffee aroma filled the air. “Vedi? Ci si arrangia!” she said, handing me a steaming cup. You see? You make do!

The short version

ArrangiarsiTo make do, to get by, to improvise a solution with what's available.
Ci si arrangiaOne makes do (a common expression, often said with a shrug).
Mi arrangioI'll manage / I'll figure it out.

What Arrangiarsi Really Means

It's more than just 'making do' in English.

Arrangiarsi is a verb, but it’s also a philosophy. It means finding a solution, often creative and unconventional, when circumstances aren't ideal or resources are scarce. It’s about resourcefulness, resilience, and a touch of ingenious improvisation. It's the opposite of waiting for perfect conditions or the 'official' solution.

When life gives you lemons, an Italian finds a way to make limoncello, even without a proper distiller.

Phrases for Getting By

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Arrangiarsi · To make do

Non ti preoccupare, mi arrangio./non ti preokkuˈrare, mi arranˈdʒo/Don't worry, I'll manage / I'll figure it out.

Dobbiamo arrangiarci con quello che abbiamo./dobˈbiamo arranˈdʒartʃi kon kwelˈlo ke abˈbiamo/We have to make do with what we have.

Sei bravo ad arrangiarti!/ˈsɛi ˈbravo ad arranˈdʒarti/You're good at finding solutions! (Lit. 'You're good at making do!')

In qualche modo ci si arrangia sempre./in ˈkwalke ˈmɔdo tʃi si arranˈdʒa ˈsɛmpre/Somehow, one always manages.

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Is *arrangiarsi* a negative thing, like 'settling'?

Not at all! While 'making do' in English can sometimes imply resignation or dissatisfaction, arrangiarsi in Italian carries a positive connotation of cleverness, adaptability, and resilience. It's about taking initiative and finding a way forward, often with pride in the solution found, rather than simply accepting a poor outcome.

How can I practice *arrangiarsi* in Italy?

Embrace small challenges. If your train is delayed, instead of panicking, ask locals for alternative routes or enjoy an unexpected coffee. If a shop doesn't have exactly what you need, ask for a similar option. Don't always expect perfect systems; be open to local, creative workarounds, and you'll experience Italy more authentically.

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