Sussurro vs. bisbiglio
The Italian words 'sussurro' and 'bisbiglio' both refer to whispers or whispering, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.
Sussurro
'Sussurro' generally refers to a soft, gentle whisper or murmur. It often implies a more melodious or soothing sound.
Il sussurro del vento tra le foglie.
(The whisper of the wind through the leaves.)
Mi svegliò con un dolce sussurro all'orecchio.
(She woke me up with a gentle whisper in my ear.)
Il sussurro del ruscello era rilassante.
(The murmur of the stream was relaxing.)
Bisbiglio
'Bisbiglio' typically denotes a more secretive or gossipy type of whispering. It often implies hushed conversations or muttering.
I bisbigli in ufficio si sono intensificati dopo l'annuncio.
(The whispers in the office intensified after the announcement.)
Sentì un bisbiglio dietro di sé durante la riunione.
(He heard whispering behind him during the meeting.)
Il bisbiglio dei bambini disturbava la lezione.
(The children's muttering was disrupting the lesson.)
Summary
While both 'sussurro' and 'bisbiglio' refer to whispering, 'sussurro' is often associated with softer, more pleasant sounds like nature or gentle speech, whereas 'bisbiglio' tends to imply more secretive or disruptive whispering, often in human conversations or gossip.