No cap
What does “no cap” mean?
“No cap” means “I am telling the truth” or “I am not exaggerating.” It is a slang expression, used a lot on social media and in conversation among younger speakers.
Where does it come from?
In slang, to “cap” means to lie or to exaggerate. So “no cap” means no lie.
How to use it
- “That film was the best I have ever seen, no cap.” (I really mean it.)
- “He ran 10 km before breakfast. No cap!” (It is true.)
- “Cap!” on its own means “That is not true” or “You are lying.”
A word of advice
Slang changes quickly and belongs to informal situations. It is fine with friends and online, but in a business meeting or an exam, choose “honestly” or “to be frank” instead.
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