capisci
/kaˈpiʃ.ʃi/
The English term capiche refers to the Italian word capisci, which is an informal way to ask if someone understands what has been said.
In Italian, you can use capisci? as a standalone question to mean "understand?" Be aware that depending on your tone, this can sound aggressive, condescending or confrontational.
Which one should you use?
The form capisci is used when speaking to a single person who is a friend or a subordinate. If you are addressing more than one person, use the plural form capite. For polite situations, such as when speaking to a stranger or a superior, use the form capisce.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
capisci is an informal form. For polite or formal address, you should use capisce.
How does it change in a sentence?
When addressing a group of people, change the form from capisci to capite.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable. It is pronounced /kaˈpiʃ.ʃi/.
When do people say it?
The spelling capiche is a phonetic representation used in English to mimic an Italian accent and is not the standard Italian spelling.
Did you know?
- The root of this word, capire, is linked to the idea of 'taking' or 'seizing'. To 'understand' something in Italian is metaphorically described as 'grasping' or 'capturing' the meaning.
- Italian has a distinct way of expressing 'I see' or 'I follow you' during a conversation using capisco, which functions as a back-channeling signal to show the listener is engaged without needing to ask a question.
- In Italy, asking capisci? can sound much more aggressive than the English 'get it?' It is often used in films to convey a threat or to assert dominance over someone.
Examples in context
- Capisco, grazie per la dettagliata spiegazione.I understand, thank you for the detailed explanation.
- Non devi dirlo a nessuno, capisci?You mustn't tell anyone, do you understand?
- Devi finire tutto entro domani, capisci?You have to finish everything by tomorrow, understand?
- È molto importante, capisci?It is very important, do you understand?
Example conversation
A chef is giving instructions to his assistant in a kitchen.
- FrancescoMetti solo un pizzico di sale, capisci?Put only a pinch of salt, understand?
- ChiaraSì, ho capito perfettamente.Yes, I understood perfectly.
- FrancescoNon sbagliare il dosaggio, capisci?Don't get the dosage wrong, do you understand?
- ChiaraTranquillo, lo farò bene.Don't worry, I'll do it well.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry capisci, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
