The Italian word capo has several meanings depending on the context, but its most common translations are head, boss, or leader. Let’s explore the different uses of capo:
- As “boss” or “leader”: Capo can be used to refer to a person in charge, such as a manager, leader, or boss. It’s a common way to refer to someone in authority, whether in a workplace, a group, or even an organization.
- Il capo del team è molto severo – The team leader is very strict.
- Devo parlare con il mio capo prima di prendere una decisione – I have to talk to my boss before making a decision.
- As “head” (body part): Capo also literally means head when referring to the part of the body. In this sense, it’s synonymous with the English word head.
- Mi fa male il capo – My head hurts.
- Porta un cappello in capo – He’s wearing a hat on his head.
- As “beginning” or “end”: In some contexts, capo can mean the beginning or end of something, often referring to the start of a road, path, or a specific segment.
- Andiamo fino al capo della strada – Let’s go to the end of the street.
- Capo d’anno – New Year’s (literally, head of the year).
- As “article of clothing”: In fashion or clothing terminology, capo refers to a piece of clothing or garment. It’s a more formal way to talk about individual clothing items.
- Ho comprato un bel capo di abbigliamento – I bought a nice piece of clothing.
- Questo capo è fatto a mano – This garment is handmade.
- As a geographic term: In geography, capo can refer to a cape or headland, meaning a point of land that juts out into the sea.
- Capo di Buona Speranza – Cape of Good Hope.
In summary, capo is a versatile word in Italian that can mean boss, head, leader, garment, or even refer to a geographic feature. Its meaning depends heavily on the context in which it’s used.