Suonare vs. squillare
The Italian verbs 'suonare' and 'squillare' both relate to ringing or making sounds, but they have distinct uses and connotations.
Suonare
'Suonare' is a versatile verb that means to play an instrument, to ring, or to sound. It is used for a wide range of situations involving purposeful sound-making.
Ho suonato il campanello, ma nessuno ha risposto.
(I rang the doorbell, but nobody answered.)
Maria suona il pianoforte da dieci anni.
(Maria has been playing the piano for ten years.)
La sveglia suona alle 7 ogni mattina.
(The alarm clock rings at 7 every morning.)
Squillare
'Squillare' specifically refers to a sharp, shrill ringing sound. It's typically used for electronic devices like phones or alarms, emphasizing the suddenness or intensity of the sound.
Il telefono ha squillato nel bel mezzo della notte.
(The phone rang sharply in the middle of the night.)
La tromba squillò per segnalare l'inizio della gara.
(The trumpet blared to signal the start of the race.)
L'allarme antincendio squillò improvvisamente, facendo sobbalzare tutti.
(The fire alarm suddenly shrilled, making everyone jump.)
Summary
While 'suonare' is a general term for playing instruments or making sounds, including ringing, 'squillare' specifically describes sharp, shrill ringing sounds, often associated with sudden or attention-grabbing noises from electronic devices or instruments.