capo
/ˈka.po/masculine
The Italian word for leader is capo. Wiktionary also lists duce.
Meaning: one having authority (noun)
Ways to say it
| Italian | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| capo | /ˈka.po/ | masculine |
| duce | /ˈdu.t͡ʃe/ | masculine |
capo is a versatile term used to describe one having authority. It can refer to a leader of a group, but it is also frequently used to mean a boss or the head of a specific department or organization. If you need to specify a leader of a small team or a specific group, you can use the compound word capogruppo.
Which one should you use?
While capo is a general term for a leader, duce is a highly charged term specifically associated with fascist leadership and is rarely used in modern neutral contexts.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of capo is capi.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ˈka.po/. It has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- The English word 'chef' is actually a linguistic cousin to the Italian capo, as both share the same ancient roots relating to the 'head' of something.
- The word capo is used in the expression a capo, which refers to the start of a new line of text in writing.
- The term capo is also used to describe a 'cape' of land, as it represents the 'head' or furthest point of a coastline.
Examples in context
- Tom è un capo.Tom is a leader.This sentence uses capo to identify someone's role as a leader.Tatoeba #6163170 by Guybrush88, translation #2272820 by CK
- Ci serve un capo.We need a leader.This sentence expresses the need for a leader using capo.Tatoeba #2587945 by Guybrush88, translation #2587864 by CK
- Sono il capo qui.I'm the leader here.This sentence is used to claim leadership of a specific location using capo.Tatoeba #3701306 by Guybrush88, translation #2548199 by CK
- Il Capo di StatoHead of State
- Il capo di governoThe head of government
- 54 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Martina and Matteo are discussing their new project manager.
- MartinaChi è il nuovo capo?Who is the new leader?
- MatteoLui è il nostro capo.He is our leader.
- MartinaÈ un bravo capo?Is he a good leader?
- MatteoSì, è un grande capo.Yes, he is a great leader.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “leader” translations and entries capo, duce, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries capo, duce, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
