What Does Mean In Spanish

How to Say “What Does Mean” in Spanish

Introduction

When learning a new language, it is common to come across phrases or expressions that need to be translated. One such phrase is “What does mean?” which is often used to ask for the meaning of a word or a phrase. In Spanish, there are various ways to express this question, depending on the context and the level of formality. In this article, we will explore different ways to say “What does mean?” in Spanish.

¿Qué significa?

The most straightforward and commonly used translation of “What does mean?” in Spanish is “¿Qué significa?” This phrase can be used in both formal and informal situations, making it a versatile option. For example, if you want to know the meaning of a specific word, you can simply ask, “¿Qué significa la palabra ‘amor’?” (What does the word ‘amor’ mean?).

¿Qué quiere decir?

Another common way to ask for the meaning of something in Spanish is by using the phrase “¿Qué quiere decir?” This expression is slightly more formal and can be used interchangeably with “¿Qué significa?” For instance, if you want to understand the meaning of a particular phrase, you can ask, “¿Qué quiere decir ‘buen provecho’?” (What does ‘buen provecho’ mean?).

¿Cuál es el significado de…?

If you prefer a more elaborate way of asking for the meaning of something, you can use the phrase “¿Cuál es el significado de…?” This construction is particularly useful when discussing complex concepts or abstract ideas. For example, if you are studying literature and want to know the meaning of a specific literary term, you can inquire, “¿Cuál es el significado de ‘metáfora’?” (What is the meaning of ‘metaphor’?).

¿Qué quiere expresar?

In some cases, you might not only want to know the literal meaning of a word or phrase but also understand its intended message or expression. In such situations, you can use the phrase “¿Qué quiere expresar?” This question is more focused on the underlying emotions or ideas being conveyed. For instance, if you come across a poem and want to grasp its deeper meaning, you can ask, “¿Qué quiere expresar este poema?” (What does this poem mean?).

Conclusion

Asking for the meaning of a word or phrase is an essential part of language learning. In Spanish, there are several ways to express the question “What does mean?” depending on the context and level of formality. The most common options include “¿Qué significa?” and “¿Qué quiere decir?” while “¿Cuál es el significado de…?” and “¿Qué quiere expresar?” offer more elaborate alternatives. By familiarizing yourself with these phrases, you will be able to confidently inquire about the meanings of words and phrases in Spanish.

Tom Alfieri Cpa