Mobili vs. mobilio vs. mobilia
The Italian language has three similar words for furniture: 'mobili', 'mobilio', and 'mobilia'. While they all refer to furniture, there are subtle differences in their usage and connotations.
Mobili
'Mobili' is the most common and versatile term for furniture. It is the plural form of 'mobile' and can refer to individual pieces or furniture in general.
Ho comprato dei nuovi mobili per il salotto.
(I bought new furniture for the living room.)
Questo negozio vende mobili di alta qualità.
(This store sells high-quality furniture.)
Mobilio
'Mobilio' is a collective noun that refers to all the furniture in a space as a whole. It's often used in more formal or technical contexts.
Il mobilio dell'ufficio è stato completamente rinnovato.
(The office furniture has been completely renewed.)
L'hotel ha investito in un nuovo mobilio per tutte le camere.
(The hotel has invested in new furniture for all rooms.)
Mobilia
'Mobilia' is similar to 'mobilio' but is considered slightly more old-fashioned or regional. It also refers to furniture as a collective whole.
La mobilia della nonna è stata conservata per generazioni.
(Grandmother's furniture has been preserved for generations.)
Abbiamo ereditato tutta la mobilia della vecchia casa di campagna.
(We inherited all the furniture from the old country house.)
Summary
While 'mobili' is the most common term for furniture and can be used for individual pieces or sets, 'mobilio' and 'mobilia' are collective nouns referring to all furniture in a space. 'Mobilio' is more formal and contemporary, while 'mobilia' has a slightly more traditional or regional feel. All three can be used to discuss furniture, but their usage depends on the context and the speaker's style.