Non ho capito le indicazioni. Può ripeterle più lentamente?

I didn't understand the directions. Can you repeat them more slowly?

Pronunciation

in-di-ca-ZIO-ni — stress on fourth syllable. len-ta-MEN-te — stress on fourth syllable.

When to use it

When someone has given you directions too quickly or in complex Italian.

What it means

'Non ho capito' (I didn't understand) is passato prossimo of 'capire'. 'Può ripetere' (can you repeat) + 'più lentamente' (more slowly). 'Lentamente' is the adverb of 'lento' (slow). This polite request for clarification is always appreciated — better to ask twice than get lost.

Variations

Parla più piano, per favore?

Can you speak more slowly, please?

'Piano' (slowly/softly) is informal but widely used

Può scrivere l'indirizzo?

Can you write the address?

Written directions are much easier to follow

Può mostrarmi sulla mappa invece di spiegarmi?

Can you show me on the map instead of explaining?

Visual is sometimes clearer than verbal

Mini Dialogue

— Non ho capito le indicazioni. Può ripeterle più lentamente? — Certo! Allora: vai dritto per questa via, poi al primo semaforo gira a destra. — Al primo semaforo a destra — capito! — Poi prendi la terza a sinistra e sei arrivato.

— I didn't understand the directions. Can you repeat them more slowly? — Of course! So: go straight along this street, then at the first traffic light turn right. — At the first traffic light turn right — got it! — Then take the third on the left and you're there.

Cultural Note

Italians speak quickly and use regional accents that can be challenging for learners. It is always appropriate to ask for slower speech — 'più lentamente' or 'più piano'. Most Italians will happily repeat and simplify. Some will switch to a mixture of Italian and gestures, which is equally effective for directions.

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Grazie mille per le indicazioni!

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