The word kapish (often spelled capisce, capisci, or kapeesh) comes from the Italian verb capire, which means “to understand.” In Italian, the proper forms are:
- Capisce – “Do you understand?” (formal or third person singular)
- Capisci – “Do you understand?” (informal or second person singular)
The slang term kapish is used mainly in American English, particularly in Italian-American communities, as a way to ask someone if they understand something. It’s an informal, often playful or stereotypical expression used in movies or casual conversation to mimic Italian.
For example:
Capisci cosa voglio dire? – Do you understand what I mean?
Non capisce mai niente. – He/She never understands anything