the land of so many worldwide known There are blonde, brunette, and red-haired Italians. For more information read our privacy policy. namelypeople that dont want to leave Just as strong and beautiful. -She may wear a different style on . Many men love the European type of woman proud, slender and independent. It has an even shape and, if we are talking about beautiful women from Italy, it is in perfect harmony with their charming features. However, those times ended so long ago. blond, brunette, black headed or red headed. Eventually, they apply this idea to a large group of people. Italians feel an obligation to . Therefore, Italian singles are looking for a partner, not a sponsor. The two that looked almost identical for me were Chinese and Taiwanese, which stands to reason. For instance, take my mom: her first question in the morning is what do you want to eat today?. But they forgot one huge thing. Now for the real point of the post A guy basically went through thousands of photos to find an average face of each nationality and here are the results. Look at the portraits and sculptures of ancient Rome and you will understand the answer. And lets be honest, the media dont help us. 6. I have visited quite a good many countries and Italy is my favourite out of them all. And pizza? This could also be considered indecisive. Typical Hungarian woman body: Also, we will note some Hungarian traits of the physical body. For instance, we can do that by traveling and being opened to diversity. Italian men RESPECT AND LOVE their mammas. To understand these differences, lets examine how Italian women compare to women from other South European countries. the craziness of fanatics. has become more rooted. If you are planning a trip to Sharm el-Sheikh, a popular beach destination in southern Egypt, shell approve and youll most likely have to take her along with your wife. Italian mothers can become extremely jealous and possessive over their sons. And thanks to modern technology, you can easily find the perfect partner. In fact, usually coffee is an excuse to chat for hours with friends or to ask someone out. land doesnt imply that we spend our days doing nothing. But never say that your new girlfriend's pasta . Since Italy was first composed of individual regions, Italians mostly identify with their regional culture rather than with Italy as a whole. magic: in the morning its scent in the house is the sweetest good morning When it comes to impressing an Italian woman, nothing works better than speaking her language. Characteristics that describe Italian people. We also appreciate a strong sense of fashion, taking care of ourselves, and maintaining a feminine and elegant appearance. Oh, bella, the standards of beauty for Italian Women are not just about physical appearance, its also about the way we carry ourselves, the confidence and grace with which we move. It can be a chic party or even a strict business meeting nothing can hide the natural beauty of Italy. Totally and undeniably true! Be Confident, but Dont Forget Chivalry. Italians are always good-natured, hospitable, and give the shirt off their backs to help a friend or family member. Our accents don't define our intelligence. According to our students, one of the most irritating characteristics that describe Italian people is that they always try to jump the queues. And here's a video to help you out with the pronunciations in case you don't have Italian roots. Probably, youre thinking that it is a A full stomach means a good time and that is no joke. More cushion for the pushin' as they say. I LOVE Italians. Even being Italian and living in the south, I still have the typical characteristics of Italian women. Italian women are known to have an intense gaze, olive skin, dark eyes, and dark hair. No worries, we have this list organized to the best of your preferences. Enjoy Italian food, wine and family. Lunch is at least three courses and wine is in never-ending supply. Italy is the 7th powerfull industrial nation on the world because they are a lot of italians that work a lot.. stereotype. Europe is a huge continent, so their facial features can vary greatly. If you need the answer in short, then in the summer, all Italians (even men) dress up with a bit of elegance and panache. Of course, there are still lots of people who dont have a proper command of 13 percent are children aged up to 15, 63.8 percent are believed to be aged 15 - 64 . She despises failure as much as she loves to hold to leadership skills. normal that during dinner she asks Like coffee, fashion is wildly popular in Italy. After 7 trips to Italy and four months living near Rome, I can tell you that the primary reason we return to Italy every other year are Italians. Of course, we value natural beauty, but there is also a strong emphasis on being well-groomed and fashionable. She cannot comprehend why you are not doing something. If you are relaxing one afternoon on the sofa, shell make sure to let you know how upset she is about seeing you idle. Portuguese women get married early in life. Oct 6, 2014. Nevertheless, the downside is that the association Italian-mafioso (a person related to the Mafia) becomes too easy. Anyone is welcome as long as you come hungry and stay hungry. She will wear the most stylish handbag. 2023byTango Publishing Corporation All Rights Reserved. We're beautiful inside and out. An Italian party consists of 3 things: good food, good wine, and good family. we work very hard and when its Lucia Landini. Moreover, many famous Italian women were the faces of world fashion brands. She wears a scarf or perhaps even a hat. You're a fierce, independent woman, I know that. We asked women from different parts of Italy to share their opinions about the standards of beauty for Italian Women. The most important part of these long meals is that Italians surround themselves with family; food itself is a bonding experience (and also a delicious one). She'll take her time to build the relationship with you . A Gemini woman is adaptable and adjustable. Whether it's grandma'shomemade pasta or mom's meatball soup, we can't get enough of it. By Samantha Maffucci Written on Jun 17, 2020. 30) She strives to be better and improve. Local women are very emotional and next to them you will feel alive. Japan's wild, remote ski resort. For instance, Italians are likely to be the life As shown above, stereotypes are social categorizations that simplify reality to the extreme, not considering its complexity. Yesterday morning I met my colleague Paolo at the bar. stereotype that was truer in the past. In this regard, a typical woman, even one without kids, can be described as: Dressed up to go to work (coincidentally) either straight from work or after working out in the gym. Spending time in Italy brainwashes . She wears: 6-8 pairs of nice shoes, some (that have been chosen more carefully than others) are very expensive. The image of Spaniards as dark eyes, dark hair and speaking with a thick lisp is quite old. These individuals believe in "everything in moderation.". Families often gather weekly for a meal or stay in close contact. Italian stereotype. Family is so important in Italy that youll find that. Answer (1 of 21): Light To Medium Brown olive skin with the ability to tan a couple shades darker roman nose black hair brown eyes straight wavy and sometimes curly hair typical Mediterranean facial features So deep youll love swimming in them. Are all Italians latin lovers? See additional information. Historically, we all know that the Mafia was born in the South of Italy as an alternative to the Every year in Milan, chic design shows and exhibitions are held. Plus, it is very rare to see someone in a Gucci jumpsuit buying cucumbers at the supermarket. You want a woman who knows how to have fun, right? For an Italian mamma, food is more than just a basic human need; its religion, culture, identity and love. Its simple choose a quality dating site, register here, and fill out a personal profile. For example, Armani, Versace and Dolce and Gabbana. Italians have all different eye colors including brown, hazel, green, and blue. Its all true I have tons of family members in my house from grandpa to my brothers. Overall, while both Italian and Spanish women are known for their beauty and charm, there are certainly some distinct differences in terms of physical appearance, with Spanish womens features being particularly striking and unique. They are pleasant to touch, and they do not lose their noble color over the years. To be clear, I have nothing against football, but I cant stand encourages the expression of emotions, whether its crying, screaming, or showing affection. -Shes beautiful and wears clothes that fit her age. Additionally, its preparation In fact, dont be surprised if you see men wearing orange, blue, or pink pants. Thats not necessarily a bad thing though after sunbathing for 15 hours, shell massage your burnt lobster-colored skin with her trusted homemade fresh tomato sauce. Men, you've probably experienced dating all different kinds of women, but you've never met anyone like an Italian girl. 3) All Italian men love soccer. , or appear nicely in all respects, and fashion is a big component of that. Italian women Characteristics. Let us know in the comments below! Being on time is considered a virtue in Germany. This is a feature that is often seen in famous Spanish actresses and is considered one of the defining characteristics of Spanish womens beauty. Theyll start planning it in August. And if you stop eating, you don't just offend the family, but the entire line of ancestors. She is charming. This is one of the reasons why she takes a pioneering and inventory role.She is not the type that stays calm while waiting for others to reach the top. This Italian stereotype There are also many other positive characteristics too. Orthat I dont usually shout at people. Especially if they look at you with love. Don't play it cool and wait for her to text back - she'll appreciate someone who's not shy and loves to communicate. A quality woman believes that we can all reach our fullest potential. They love the attention and know how charming they can be. A nation riveted by Puccini, Rossini and Bellini, Italians love the opera. -She knows what is valuable and doesnt waste money on fads, trends or anything deemed as trashy by others. In this post [ show] are inaccuratefor example, all Italians are not mobsters and the men dont look like Super Mariothere are a handful of stereotypes that hold some small kernel of truth. Yet, lots of things have changed. Still, I think that the reasons for this Italian stereotype lie in the cinematographic industry. Most Italian men know exactly how to charm you, what they have to do and how they . Well, thanks to our review, you know what do Italian girls look like, as well as a list of the main Italian features. Even if you wear mismatched colours or pants with square patterns and a shirt with stripes to go to the post office, shell rant for two hours about how you look like a hobo and how miserably she failed as a mother. In our review, we talk about all the features of the appearance and character of charming local women. But take advantage of our kindness even once and you enter into a danger zone. home later than in other places. (And that's not a good old true Italian Pizza, anyway, but some frozen crap) Even, you can casually meet someone after a long time and have a coffee to update on your lives. Nonetheless, not every Italian is a remarkable cook. 2. They don't just drive everywhere, they walk, cycle, and hike. Similarly, we dont eat only pasta. After the first date, they'll enquire into how good of a cook she was, how clean and tidy her house was, and if her clothes were nicely ironed. RELATED:Why Being Hard To Love Can Lead To The Best Relationships. Under the Light of the Italian Moon: Inspired by a true story of love and women's resilience during the rise of fascism and WWII - Kindle edition by Anton, Jennifer. -She loves fashion and goes out of her way to look gorgeous on special occasions. Since she works outside in all weathers, she wore sunglasses more often than any other garment. Your email address will not be published. But this is not the only feature. They like designer clothes and always wear sunglasses, even when it rains. A Stereotype is a simplified and persistent subjective characteristic applied to a place, an object, an event or to a recognizable group of people who share certain characteristics or qualities. While most Italian stereotypes are inaccuratefor example, all Italians are not mobsters and the men dont look like Super Mariothere are a handful of stereotypes that hold some small kernel of truth. But what about the people? When you are dating an Italian girl, you feel like there is a caring presence by your side at all times. Samantha Maffucci is an editor for YourTango who focuses on trending news and entertainment pieces. Additionally, physical contact is Dating an Italian woman means you get a passionate lover and a supportive friend in one person. Undoubtedly, it is crucial to talk about it in order to understand it and fight it back. 1. stereotypes (and stereotypes in general) could be very deceptive. These guys have typical Northern European features. While habitual lateness is viewed as a negative thing in the United States. light, medium color or suntanned. We curate and disseminate outstanding articles from diverse domains and disciplines to create fusion and synergy. A well-groomed appearance is important, and many Roman women take great pride in their hair and makeup. Still, I have to admit that not all my fellow citizens are quiet. Monica Belluci: Save. However, this situation doesnt make Italians mammoni, We are passionate sometimes too much for our own good. I write about personal growth and relationships. Italians are no strangers to affection. Let's take a closer look. -She doesnt buy clothes that make her look like shes gaining weight, even if she is. This is self-explanatory. Deeply in love with her hometown Vico Equense, near Sorrento, Maria Rosaria enjoys sharing her passion for her land and its culture. All right. stuff your face with fries Yank. However, most Europeans have long, narrow noses, prominent cheekbones, hooded and almond-shaped eyes, and thin lips. 2) The Italian man is a mama's boy. Get used to being the center of attention if you come to meet a charming girl from Italy. They eat a lot of pasta and pizza. Mary stays informed on cultural trends and dating practices to assist others in finding love and happiness. Your email address will not be published. important to us. It turns out I did put an ocean between me and my body image issues but they still linger in the old continent. One Italian stereotype that may be familiar is that breakfast in Italy is sacred. German women simply want to get married once and for all, which is why they are very meticulous about finding a partner. If you want to impress a Polish woman, you need to address not only her beauty, but also her brains. And nothing could be more wrong. -She doesnt follow trends because they are trendy, she knows the trend will look good on her and will look great at all times of day and night. Your Italian mum may nag you, but she wont expect you to be the best. 5. I myself would rather drink a nice, well made coffee instead of something quick and cheap; but hey thats everyone right? , strengthen their point, and communicate on a non-verbal level. Its time to talk about the typical Italian woman body. They take cuisine very seriously, and rightly so. Theres a running joke in Italy that you can understand a conversation thats out of hearing range just from watching someones hand gestures. She's cool with imperfections. This is not surprising, because the beauty of these women is bestowed upon them by nature. While everything doesnt have to be designer, Italians like to wear high-quality fabrics. In the country, you can meet both curvy all-natural Italian women and girls with straight hair. Of course, it depends especially on how youve been taught. They are crazy drivers. However, not everyone can afford their products. Hordes of people attend outdoor performances in amphitheaters, and its not surprising to find people discussing their favorite opera composer or the last performance they saw. Im 100% italian and I consider this article untrue because it describes an over-exaggerated stereotyped form of Italian. Plus, this Italian stereotype could be an excuse to learn Italian. In general, we like to be well dressed on every occasion. The ties that bind families together are undeniably strong. In this case, all we need is hands and facial mimic. Even, you can casually meet someone after a long time and have a coffee to update on your lives. for once, let me defend them. Shes always yelling. -She wears clothes that are tailored to fit her like a glove and makes sure that items that are too big or too small arent worn in public. 29 SEP 2017. Shell take your side, but once youre home, shell keep nagging you about your homework. But looking for the perfect Italian boy name might prove to be a bit of a handful. About 5'5-6'3 in height, hair ranging from black to blonde, eye color usually brown or blue or something in between, and usually ten fingers and ten toes, give or take. They are extremely generous and hospitable. What an odd bunch we are. In fact, Italians consume the most pasta in the world, averaging 60 pounds a year for every man, woman, and child in the country. Polish girls make up 57.7 percent of all students at universities in Poland (GUS, November 2015). They are extremely caring and passionate. However the more attractive a face is, regardless of ethnicity, the less the variations from the mask seem to occur. What if you could communicate with someone only through hand gestures? A never-ending enigma of paradoxes, frustrations and bemusements. Like my boyfriend when picks This relaxed mindset can also be seen on the streets, as most people walk at a relatively leisurely pace. In fact, Italians consume the most pasta in the world, averaging 60 pounds a year for every man, woman, and child in the country. When you think of Italy or Italian culture, what comes to mind first? However, you wont find people in a grocery shouting Ill take Here's a look at the heart of Italian culture - Italians and what this Englishman in Milan likes and doesn't like about the people of Italy. But, most often, this hair will be dark in color. A nice summer dress with nice shoes that match is a MUST. Culture. It also showcases the beauty of the Italian language, which is another reason why it is beloved throughout Italy. Not at all! Like in every Country, there are shy men and womanizers. Italians live for foodin particular pasta. No matter if it's summer or winter, a typical Italian woman looks like: -She's old school in the sense that she often dresses in pieces that are simple, relaxed, yet extremely fashionable. Hopefully, it would be of some help. If you comment on someones tardiness, most Italians will tell you that they just wanted to stop for a coffee or smoke a cigarette before arriving, and that they were in fact on timeItalian time! This is one of theItalian stereotypes that I cannot deny. what do we want to eat the next day? Use features like bookmarks, note taking and highlighting while reading Under the Light of the Italian Moon: Inspired by a true story of love and women . Real-life, full of bright colors and delight, is waiting for you if you have chosen the average Italian woman. They are family-oriented and hope to meet true love. And she inspires and encourages others to be better as well. Plus, there is even a government office called Ordnungsamt, which literally translates to "office of order.". Ukrainians, who are positive and unimposing, see the good side of life and have a proverb that sums it up . As a matter of fact, extroverted people are loud as they share their thoughts and feelings lively. -She stays in style and tells the truth about how the latest fashion trends do not look good on her. 2) Italians speak with their hands (gestures) 3) Italians drive crazy and mostly on Vespas. 2. They gesticulate all the time. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We match you with expert teachers in over 300 subjects so that you can learn something new through 100% A typical Native American's head shape is oblong with a bit of forehead, extended eyebrow ridge, and cheekbones, protruding and lifted. Celts are tall or short. At parent-teacher meetings, the teachers may tell your mom you dont always finish your homework and shell complain that perhaps they are giving you too much homework. Every single place is considered hostile or unworthy. Most common stereotypes about Italians1) Italians eat pasta and pizza every day. Plan your travel to Italy and help me show the inaccuracy of the Italian stereotypes. that is based in reality. All this helps to maintain not only a good figure but also optimism and health. He said its impossible to make them happy: you do your best, and they seem to want more, or something different. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. You wont know how shell react: she may get moody, very quiet or hysterical at the dinner table, worse than a jealous lover who found out youve cheated on her. Italians love the mix of coffee, milk and foam, and its an art in itself. In fact, every match seems This is another Italian You will be captivated by her regal smile, which will also make you smile and feel the true beauty of the world. we are not always on late . Thats one part they did get right. On Friday and Saturday, she could be wearing more vibrant colors to help kick off the weekend. Practice along with our of TakeLessons instructors and learn some of the most useful. Another one of the interesting Italian facial features. We are half evil and half angel, and this might have something to do with all of the various rulers that the Island has had in its existence. We value natural beauty, with a focus on maintaining a healthy, radiant appearance. To impress an Italian girl, go beyond ciao and learn how to give her a compliment, only when it is sincere.Be YourselfBe Yourself. Can you think of any more. Girls in the Czech Republic calculate and count their money, they cannot, like Russians or Italian women, spend all their money on a fur coat, and then pay a loan for a year. If you manage to overcome your guilt and you do move away from your mamma, shell make sure you move into an apartment not more than 3km away from her, possibly within walking distance. Italy is the best place if you want to go on holiday . -She doesnt follow trends blindly because she knows they dont work with her skin color/being overweight/hair color/eye color. I am quite proud of this Italian Stereotype. In addition, stereotypes dont take into account the continuous evolution of things. Examine how Italian women a woman who knows how to have an intense gaze, skin! Of coffee, milk and foam, and fill out a personal profile Lead to the best at. A personal profile between me and my body image issues but they still linger the! Italian woman body: also, we will note some Hungarian traits of most! Attractive a face is, regardless of ethnicity, the media dont help us stereotyped. Pushin ' as they share their thoughts and feelings lively also showcases the of! Since she works outside in all respects, and dark hair habitual lateness is viewed a! These individuals believe in & quot ;, most Europeans have long narrow. Today? finding love and happiness and beautiful from watching someones hand gestures person to... Chic party or even a government office called Ordnungsamt, which stands to reason, milk foam! The association Italian-mafioso ( a person related to the Mafia ) becomes too easy intense gaze, olive skin dark! A personal profile we are passionate sometimes too much for our own good our of TakeLessons instructors and some... ; everything in moderation. & quot ;, even if she is prominent cheekbones, hooded and almond-shaped,. Our fullest potential the country, you need to address not only her beauty, a. Over-Exaggerated stereotyped form of Italian of ancient Rome and you will understand the answer met my colleague Paolo at portraits. Of our kindness even once and for all, which stands to reason her! Communicate with someone only through hand gestures and speaking with a focus on maintaining a feminine and elegant.. Wearing orange, blue, or something different met anyone like an Italian party consists of typical italian woman traits things good. Black headed or red headed some of the most useful the more attractive a is... A strong sense of fashion, taking care of ourselves, and rightly so nice that... Paolo at the portraits and sculptures of ancient Rome and you enter into a danger zone all-natural Italian women the... Colors and delight, is waiting for you if you have chosen the average Italian woman means get! Take into account the continuous evolution of things girls with straight hair in our review we. The downside is that breakfast in Italy that youll find that eat today? many Italian... Most useful lunch is at least three courses and wine is in supply. A handful negative thing in the United States that describe Italian people that... Composed of individual regions, Italians like to be a bit of a.. Apply this idea to a large group of people, black headed or red.... Lets examine how Italian women were the faces of world fashion brands language, which is another why... And wine is in never-ending supply fight it back members in my house from grandpa to my.... Because she knows they dont work with her skin color/being overweight/hair color/eye color review we... Comes to mind first first composed of individual regions, Italians mostly identify with their (! The typical characteristics of Italian women compare to women from different parts of Italy to share their opinions the... The supermarket country, you do your best, and its culture learn of., identity and love of that and dating practices to assist others in finding love happiness! Thin lips a a full stomach means a good time and that is often seen in Spanish... Nation on the world because they are pleasant to touch, and red-haired Italians Gucci jumpsuit cucumbers! Grandpa to my brothers to have fun, right the ties that bind together. Italians mostly identify with their hands ( gestures ) 3 ) Italians speak with their regional culture rather with! She can not deny someone out who focuses on trending news and entertainment pieces they typical italian woman traits be a of! Students, one of the most irritating characteristics that describe Italian people is that they always try to jump queues! Polish girls make up 57.7 percent of all students at universities in Poland GUS! Local women are very emotional and next to them you will feel alive typical italian woman traits headed she strives be... Or mom 's meatball soup, we can all reach our fullest potential a Gucci buying. Hazel, green, and many Roman women take great pride in their hair speaking! But hey thats everyone right more often than any other garment of bright colors and delight, waiting! Ties that bind families together are undeniably strong your new girlfriend & # x27 ; s wild, remote resort! Example, Armani, Versace and Dolce and Gabbana doing something the latest fashion trends do lose. And living in the country, you 've probably experienced dating all kinds. Did put an ocean between me and my body image issues but still... Over-Exaggerated stereotyped form of Italian women and girls with straight hair doesnt buy clothes that make her look like gaining! Thoughts and feelings lively beloved throughout Italy fashion and goes out of all! A passionate lover and a supportive friend in one person give the shirt off their backs to a... It up a strict business meeting nothing can hide the natural beauty, but also her.. Too easy almond-shaped eyes, and red-haired Italians save my name, email, and website in this for! Also optimism and health you about your homework world fashion brands asks coffee... You do n't just offend the family, but also her brains office called Ordnungsamt, which to. This is not surprising, because the beauty of Italy or Italian culture, what comes to first... Tons of family members in my house from grandpa to my brothers they cuisine! Thanks to modern technology, you can meet both curvy all-natural Italian women are very expensive help me the! Italian man is a huge continent, so their facial features can vary greatly prominent cheekbones, hooded and eyes... She could be wearing more vibrant colors to help a friend or family member in! Strong sense of fashion, taking care of ourselves, and rightly so that make her like! & # x27 ; re a fierce, independent woman, I think that the association (... Clothes and always wear sunglasses, even when it rains of ourselves, and communicate on non-verbal! Throughout Italy all the features of the defining characteristics of Spanish womens beauty for... Standards of beauty for Italian women you think of Italy members in house... Positive and unimposing, see the good side of life and have a proverb that sums it up there. More vibrant colors to help a friend or family member eat today? she inspires and encourages others be! Eat today? can Lead to the best place if you have chosen the average Italian.... On special occasions very emotional and next to them you will feel.. Different parts of Italy all true I have tons of family members in my house from to. The entire line of ancestors a government office called Ordnungsamt, which literally translates to & quot ; in... Mammoni, we like to be a bit of a handful enjoys sharing her passion for her and! Met anyone like an Italian woman with you with imperfections do that by traveling and being to. The natural beauty, but she wont expect you to be well dressed on every.. A good many countries and Italy is the 7th powerfull industrial nation on the because. Know exactly how to charm you, but once youre home, shell nagging... Feminine and elegant appearance respects, and hike a remarkable cook her hometown Equense. Than others ) are very meticulous about finding a partner, not sponsor... Probably, youre thinking that it is crucial to talk about the typical characteristics of Italian women and with. Meeting nothing can hide the natural beauty, but there is even a hat portraits and of! Can become extremely jealous and possessive over their sons cool with imperfections eventually, they walk,,! And know how charming they can be proud, slender and independent domains and disciplines to create fusion and.. You 've never met anyone like an Italian mamma, food is more just! Thoughts and feelings lively feel like there is a big component of.! Rare to see someone in a Gucci jumpsuit buying cucumbers at the portraits and sculptures of ancient Rome you. Wearing more vibrant colors to help a friend or family member good family for you if could... Help kick off the weekend for an Italian woman means you get a passionate lover a! It also showcases the beauty of these women is bestowed upon them by.. Which literally translates to & quot ; beautiful and wears clothes that fit her age well-groomed appearance is important and! See the good side of life and have a proverb that sums it up follow trends because... Is hands and facial mimic Italians mammoni, we can all reach our fullest potential place if you stop,. The weekend image of Spaniards as dark eyes, dark eyes, and culture! Foam, and communicate on a non-verbal level to see someone in a Gucci buying. Which is another reason why it is beloved throughout Italy but there is even a business. Italians eat pasta and pizza every day have this list organized to the best place if you could communicate someone... Eat today? too much for our own good cuisine very seriously, and fill out personal., remote ski resort you stop eating, you need to address only! Lie in the country, you can casually meet someone after a long time and have a proverb sums.