Idioms · Expressiveness

Boh: How Italians Really Say 'I Don't Know'

There's a single, wonderfully expressive sound in Italian that captures a shrug, a question, and a complete lack of knowledge all at once: Boh.

If you want to sound truly Italian when you don't know something, forget Non lo so for a moment. The most common, versatile, and wonderfully expressive way to say "I don't know" or "Who knows?" is with a simple, one-syllable sound: Boh.

The short version

BohI don't know / Who knows? (informal, expressive)
Non lo soI don't know (more literal, less informal)

What does 'Boh' mean?

It's more than just 'I don't know.'

Boh isn't really a word; it's an interjection, a sound that conveys a range of feelings. It can mean a simple "I don't know," but often carries an extra layer of indifference, a shrug, or even a sense of "What do I care?" or "It's not my problem."

Boh!

/bɔ/

I don't know! / Who knows!

Non lo so.

/non lo sɔ/

I don't know. (literally: I don't know it)

The Italian shrug

Using Boh often comes with a physical gesture: a slight shrug of the shoulders, perhaps palms turned upwards. It's an entire body language message packed into one tiny sound. It communicates not just a lack of information, but also a lack of concern or responsibility for that lack.

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When should you use 'Boh'?

You'll hear Boh constantly in informal conversations among friends, family, or even with a casual acquaintance like your local barista. It's perfect for situations where the answer isn't important, or you genuinely have no idea and don't feel the need to elaborate.

AmicoDove andiamo a cena stasera?Where are we going for dinner tonight?
TuBoh!I don't know! / Who knows!
AmicaQuando arriva il treno?When does the train arrive?
TuBoh, è sempre in ritardo.Who knows, it's always late.

Are there other ways to say 'I don't know'?

Absolutely. While Boh is king for casual situations, Non lo so is the more formal, literal translation of "I don't know." You'd use it when you need to be more precise, or in a more formal setting.

Non ne ho idea.

/non ne ɔ iˈdɛa/

I have no idea.

Non so.

/non sɔ/

I don't know. (without 'lo')

Non saprei.

/non saˈprɛi/

I wouldn't know. (more polite/hesitant)

Non so lo. → Non lo so. The direct object pronoun 'lo' (it) always comes before the conjugated verb.
Using 'Boh' with your boss. → Using 'Non saprei' or 'Non ne ho idea.' Boh is too informal for professional or very polite contexts.

A good Boh is worth a thousand words – and a perfect shrug.

Is 'Boh' rude?

No, not inherently. It's very informal, so using it in a formal setting (like with a stranger or someone you need to show respect to) might come across as a bit abrupt or dismissive. But among friends, it's completely normal and natural.

Can I use 'Boh' with anyone?

It's best reserved for informal situations and people you know well. Think friends, family, or casual interactions where a relaxed tone is appropriate. When in doubt, especially with elders or in professional contexts, stick to 'Non lo so' or 'Non saprei'.

Where does 'Boh' come from?

Its origin isn't definitively known, but it's thought to be an onomatopoeic sound, mimicking the sound of a sigh or a noncommittal grunt. It's a prime example of how expressive and economical Italian can be with its sounds.

So next time you're stumped for an answer in Italian, don't overthink it. Just a simple, well-placed Boh can say it all, often with a smile. It's a little piece of authentic Italian communication that you'll quickly come to love.

Alla prossima, Aleksander

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