Italian Phrase
Scusa, non capisco.
Meaning
This phrase is a polite and direct way to express that you don't understand something in Italian. 'Scusa' means 'excuse me' (informal singular), and 'non capisco' means 'I don't understand'. It's a fundamental phrase for any language learner.
When to use
Use this phrase when you haven't understood what someone has said, whether due to speed, unfamiliar vocabulary, or an accent. It's appropriate in most informal and semi-formal situations, like asking a shopkeeper to repeat something or clarifying instructions from a friend.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Scusa,noncapisco.
Scusa
'Scusa' is the informal singular form of 'excuse me' or 'I'm sorry'. It's used when addressing one person you know well or someone younger. For formal situations or addressing multiple people, use 'Scusi'.
Non
'Non' is the standard Italian negation. It always precedes the verb it negates. Unlike English, there's no auxiliary verb like 'do' needed for negation.
Capisco
'Capisco' is the first-person singular (io) conjugation of the verb 'capire' (to understand) in the present tense. 'Capire' is an -ire verb that follows a specific conjugation pattern, often called 'isc' verbs, where '-isc-' is inserted before the ending in some forms.
🗨In Conversation
Allora, andiamo al mercato e poi prendiamo un caffè.
So, let's go to the market and then we'll have a coffee.
Scusa, non capisco. Puoi ripetere più lentamente?
Excuse me, I don't understand. Can you repeat more slowly?
✕Common Mistakes
Scusi, non comprendo.
While 'comprendo' also means 'I understand', 'capisco' is much more common and natural for expressing lack of understanding in everyday Italian. 'Comprendo' can sound a bit more formal or literary.
Non capisco scusa.
The polite interjection 'scusa' (or 'scusi' for formal) should generally come before the main statement, especially when asking for clarification or apologizing.
↔Alternatives
Non ho capito.
I didn't understand. (past tense)
Puoi ripetere, per favore?
Can you repeat, please?
Non mi è chiaro.
It's not clear to me.
Cultural Tip
Italians appreciate directness in communication, so don't hesitate to use 'Scusa, non capisco.' if you genuinely don't understand. It's better to ask for clarification than to pretend. You might also see people use a hand gesture, like shrugging with palms up, to emphasize their confusion.