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Italian Phrase

Ho capito bene?

/o kaˈpi.to ˈbɛ.ne/
Meaning"Did I understand correctly?"
💡

Meaning

This phrase literally translates to "I have understood well?" and is used to confirm comprehension of something just said or explained. It's a polite and common way to ask for clarification or to ensure you're on the same page with the speaker.

🎯

When to use

Use this phrase after someone has explained something, given instructions, or shared information, and you want to verify your understanding. It's suitable in both formal and informal settings, showing that you are engaged and want to be precise.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Hocapitobene

1

Ho (Avere)

'Ho' is the first-person singular conjugation of the verb 'avere' (to have). In this phrase, it functions as an auxiliary verb, forming the 'passato prossimo' (present perfect) tense.

2

capito (Capire)

'Capito' is the past participle of the verb 'capire' (to understand). It's a regular -ire verb, and its past participle is formed by dropping the -ire ending and adding -ito.

3

bene (Adverb)

'Bene' is an adverb meaning 'well' or 'correctly'. It modifies the verb 'capito', indicating the manner in which the understanding occurred. It should not be confused with the adjective 'buono' (good).

🗨In Conversation

A

Allora, per il progetto, dobbiamo consegnare la relazione entro venerdì e la presentazione la settimana successiva.

So, for the project, we need to submit the report by Friday and the presentation the following week.

Ho capito bene? La relazione venerdì e la presentazione la settimana dopo?

Did I understand correctly? The report on Friday and the presentation the week after?

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Capisco bene?

    This uses the present tense ('I understand well?'), which is incorrect for asking about a completed act of understanding. The 'passato prossimo' (Ho capito) is needed for a past action.

  • Ho capito buono?

    While 'buono' means 'good', it's an adjective. Here, you need the adverb 'bene' (well/correctly) to modify the verb 'capito'.

↔Alternatives

  • È corretto?

    Is that correct?

  • Mi scusi, può ripetere?

    Excuse me, can you repeat?

  • Non ho capito.

    I didn't understand.

  • Potrebbe spiegarlo di nuovo?

    Could you explain it again?

it

Cultural Tip

Italians value clear communication and appreciate when interlocutors show engagement. Using "Ho capito bene?" demonstrates that you are actively listening and making an effort to understand, which is seen as polite and respectful. It's a very common and natural way to seek confirmation without implying the speaker was unclear.