Say What Do You Mean In Spanish

How to Say “What Do You Mean?” in Spanish

Introduction

When learning a new language, it is essential to familiarize yourself with common phrases and expressions to effectively communicate. One such phrase that often comes up in conversations is “What do you mean?” This article will guide you on how to say this phrase in Spanish, allowing you to better understand and engage in conversations with native Spanish speakers.

Understanding the Phrase

Before diving into the translation, let’s break down the phrase “What do you mean?” to understand its structure. The phrase consists of three main elements: “what,” “do you,” and “mean.” By understanding these components, you can better grasp the translation in Spanish.

Translation

In Spanish, the phrase “What do you mean?” can be translated as “¿Qué quieres decir?” or “¿Qué quieres decirme?” Let’s break down the translation to understand each word: – “Qué” means “what” in English. – “Quieres” means “do you want” or “do you mean” depending on the context. – “Decir” means “to say” or “to mean.” – “Me” is a pronoun that means “me” or “to me.” Combining these words, “¿Qué quieres decir?” can be translated as “What do you mean?” while “¿Qué quieres decirme?” translates to “What do you mean to me?” Both translations are commonly used in Spanish-speaking countries, and the choice depends on personal preference or the context of the conversation.

Usage and Examples

To effectively use these phrases, it is essential to understand their context and when to use them. Here are a few examples to illustrate their usage: 1. Conversation between friends: Person A: “No entiendo lo que dices.” (I don’t understand what you’re saying.) Person B: “¿Qué quieres decir?” (What do you mean?) 2. Clarifying a statement: Person A: “Creo que deberíamos ir al cine.” (I think we should go to the movies.) Person B: “¿Qué quieres decirme?” (What do you mean to me? – seeking clarification) 3. Seeking explanation: Person A: “Eso no tiene sentido.” (That doesn’t make sense.) Person B: “¿Qué quieres decir?” (What do you mean?)

Alternative Expressions

While “¿Qué quieres decir?” and “¿Qué quieres decirme?” are the most common translations for “What do you mean?” in Spanish, there are a few alternative expressions you can use: 1. “¿Cómo?” – This is a shorter and more informal way of asking “What do you mean?” It can be used in casual conversations among friends or family members. 2. “¿A qué te refieres?” – This translates to “What are you referring to?” and can be used when seeking clarification or a more detailed explanation.

Conclusion

Learning how to say “What do you mean?” in Spanish is a valuable addition to your language skills. By using phrases like “¿Qué quieres decir?” or “¿Qué quieres decirme?” correctly, you can effectively communicate and understand conversations with native Spanish speakers. Remember to practice these phrases in various contexts to become more comfortable using them. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)

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