capisci
/kaˈpiʃ.ʃi/
The English phrase "you understand" is translated into Italian as capisci.
capisci is used to check if the listener follows what is being said or agrees with a point. To turn the statement capisci into a question, simply use a rising intonation at the end of the word.
Which one should you use?
The choice of form depends on who you are addressing. Use capisci for informal situations, while capisce is the formal version. If you are addressing a group of people, use capite.
How does it change in a sentence?
Italian uses different forms of the verb to reflect the relationship with the listener and the number of people being addressed. While capisci is for a single person you know well, capisce is used for formal singular address and capite is used for the plural "you all".
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable: /kaˈpiʃ.ʃi/.
Did you know?
- In many Italian regions, instead of asking capisci, people use the word ci sei? which literally translates to 'are you there?'
- The verb capire is closely linked to the word capo, meaning 'head'. To understand something is figuratively to 'grasp it with the head'.
- In casual conversation, capisci is often used as a filler word, similar to how English speakers use 'you know' or 'right'. It can be repeated several times in a single sentence without the speaker actually expecting an answer.
Examples in context
- Lo so che capisci.I know you understand.This sentence uses capisci to express knowing that someone understands.Tatoeba #2708534 by Guybrush88, translation #2376612 by CK
- Tu capisci i rischi?Do you understand the risks?This sentence uses capisci to ask if someone understands risks.Tatoeba #5403459 by Guybrush88, translation #2776371 by CK
- Tu capisci il cinese?Do you understand Chinese?This sentence uses capisci to ask if someone understands the Chinese language.Tatoeba #4636257 by Guybrush88, translation #2493872 by Hybrid
- 67 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Giulia is explaining a project to Lorenzo.
- GiuliaÈ un lavoro lungo, capisci?It's a long job, you understand?
- LorenzoSì, capisco perfettamente.Yes, I understand perfectly.
- GiuliaDobbiamo finire entro venerdì, capisci?We have to finish by Friday, you understand?
- LorenzoVa bene, faremo così.Alright, we'll do it that way.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry capisci, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
