capisco
The English phrase "I understand" is translated into Italian as capisco.
capisco is used to show that you grasp the meaning of something or that you agree with a point. For a more formal way to express comprehension, you can use Mi è chiaro, which means "It is clear to me".
Which one should you use?
While capisco is used for grasping meaning or logic, the phrase ho capito (I have understood) is more commonly used to signal that you have just processed a specific piece of information or instruction.
How does it change in a sentence?
capisco is the first-person singular present indicative of the verb capire. The infinitive form of the verb is capire.
Did you know?
- The word capire is closely related to the Latin 'capere', which means 'to seize' or 'to take', implying that understanding is a way of 'seizing' an idea.
- To signal that you are following a conversation in real time, Italians frequently use capisco as a filler word, similar to how English speakers use 'I see' or 'uh-huh'.
- Some regional Italian dialects use verbs related to 'catching' to express understanding, mirroring the English slang 'I caught that'.
Examples in context
- A volte ti capisco.Sometimes I understand you.This sentence shows how to use capisco when referring to understanding someone.Tatoeba #8545107 by Guybrush88, translation #5506618 by confusedchild02
- Sì, ti capisco bene.Yes, I understand you well.This sentence demonstrates using capisco to express understanding someone well.Tatoeba #2701638 by Guybrush88, translation #403051 by Ramses
- Io capisco il turco.I understand Turkish.This sentence illustrates using capisco to indicate understanding a specific language.Tatoeba #3113509 by Guybrush88, translation #2684302 by CN
- Ho capito cosa intendi.I understand what you mean.
- Capisco come ti senti, ma non preoccuparti, ti aiuterò.I understand how you feel, but don't worry, I'll help you.
- 166 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Matteo and Sofia are discussing a difficult task at work.
- MatteoÈ un progetto molto complicato.It is a very complicated project.
- SofiaSì, ma capisco il problema.Yes, but I understand the problem.
- MatteoVuoi che ti aiuti?Do you want me to help you?
- SofiaNo grazie, capisco tutto.No thanks, I understand everything.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
