Caporegime vs. Capo — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 22, 2024
Caporegime, a high-ranking Mafia role overseeing several crews, differs from Capo, a shorter term for the same position but used more casually.
Difference Between Caporegime and Capo
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A caporegime holds a significant position in Mafia hierarchy, responsible for managing multiple crews, each tasked with various criminal activities. In contrast, 'capo' is an abbreviated form of caporegime, often used informally within the Mafia and popular media.
It implies the same level of authority but is less formal in usage. Both terms signify leadership and oversight, but caporegime typically appears in more official contexts or discussions detailing Mafia structure. Meanwhile, capo, due to its brevity, is frequently used in everyday conversation and less formal discussions.
This distinction is notable in how each term is perceived: caporegime conveys a sense of officialdom and structured hierarchy, whereas capo feels more accessible and colloquial.
Both roles are fundamental to the operations and organizational control within Mafia groups, indicating that despite differences in connotation, their functional roles are identical.
Comparison Chart
Term Usage
Formal, specific
Informal, general
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Authority Level
High, overseeing multiple crews
High, same as caporegime
Connotation
Official, structured
Casual, accessible
Usage in Dialogue
More likely in official documents/discussions
Common in everyday speech, media
Linguistic Length
Longer, full term
Shorter, abbreviated
Compare with Definitions
Caporegime
A position often involved in strategic decisions.
The caporegime met regularly with the boss to discuss territories.
Capo
Often used colloquially in media and conversations.
The movie portrayed the rise of a young capo in New York.
Caporegime
A senior rank in organized crime hierarchies.
As a caporegime, his authority extended over multiple criminal activities.
Capo
A title used informally to refer to a Mafia boss of a crew.
As a capo, he had several loyal soldiers under him.
Caporegime
A Mafia rank responsible for overseeing several crews.
The caporegime coordinated all local operations efficiently.
Capo
Reflects a more approachable image of Mafia hierarchy.
In casual talks, they referred to him simply as a capo.
Caporegime
Integral to maintaining order within the Mafia.
The caporegime's decision was final in disputes among crew members.
Capo
Short for caporegime, a leader in the Mafia.
He was respected widely as a capo in the organization.
Caporegime
An intermediary between the boss and lower ranks.
The caporegime relayed orders to ensure smooth execution of plans.
Capo
Indicates a position of significant power and influence.
Even as a capo, his influence was formidable across the city.
Caporegime
A caporegime or capodecina, usually shortened to capo or informally referred to as "captain", is a rank used in the Mafia (both the Sicilian Mafia and Italian-American Mafia) for a made member of an Italian crime family who heads a "crew" of soldiers and has major social status and influence in the organization. Caporegime is an Italian word, which is used to signify the head of a family in Sicily, but has now come to mean a ranking member, similar to captain or senior sergeant in a military unit.
Capo
A capo (short for capodastro, capo tasto or capotasto [kapoˈtasto], Italian for "head of fretboard") is a device a musician uses on the neck of a stringed (typically fretted) instrument to transpose and shorten the playable length of the strings—hence raising the pitch. It is a common tool for players of guitars, mandolins, mandolas, banjos, ukuleles and bouzoukis.
Caporegime
A high-ranking member of a crime family in the Mafia who heads a "crew" of soldiers and has significant social status and influence in the organization.
Capo
A small movable bar placed across the fingerboard of a guitar or similar instrument so as to raise the pitch of all the strings uniformly.
Capo
The head of a branch of an organized crime syndicate.
Capo
A movable bar placed across the fingerboard of a guitar used to raise the pitch of all strings.
Capo
A leader in the Mafia; a caporegime.
Capo
A leader and organizer of supporters at a sporting event, particularly association football matches.
Capo
The head of a branch of an organized crime syndicate
Common Curiosities
Is there a difference between a caporegime and a capo?
Capo is an informal term for caporegime, implying the same role but used more casually.
How does one become a caporegime?
Through loyalty and proven leadership within the Mafia, leading to promotion.
Can a capo act independently of the Mafia boss?
While capos have considerable autonomy, they must still align with the boss's overall strategies.
How does the public generally perceive a capo?
Often seen as a charismatic, approachable figure due to media portrayal.
What is the role of a caporegime in the Mafia?
A caporegime manages multiple crews, overseeing their criminal operations.
How is a caporegime chosen?
Typically by the Mafia boss, based on trust and proven track records.
What responsibilities does a capo have?
A capo is responsible for the operational success and discipline of their crew.
Are the terms caporegime and capo interchangeable?
Yes, but caporegime is more formal, whereas capo is used informally.
What is the historical origin of the term caporegime?
It originates from Italian organized crime structures.
What powers does a caporegime have within the Mafia?
They have significant authority over financial and operational decisions.
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Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
