The phrase in question is a Neapolitan dialect expression. Its direct translation into English is “You want to be an American.” The expression is popularized by a song of the same name.
This phrase carries significant cultural weight. The song, released in 1956, became a hit internationally, and it speaks to the post-World War II fascination with American culture and lifestyle. The phrase’s meaning is often interpreted as an observation or critique of someone who imitates American trends or customs, sometimes superficially or inappropriately. The original song provides a tongue-in-cheek commentary on this phenomenon.
