How to Say “What Does That Mean” in Spanish

Learning Spanish vocabulary is essential for effective communication in a world where Spanish is widely spoken. One commonly used phrase that often comes up in conversations is “what does that mean?” Understanding how to express this in Spanish can enhance your language skills and help you engage more deeply with Spanish speakers.

Understanding the Phrase

The Spanish translation of “what does that mean” is “¿Qué significa eso?”. This phrase is useful in various contexts, whether you’re in a classroom, at work, or simply conversing with friends. Knowing how to ask for clarification can significantly improve your comprehension and interaction in Spanish.

Pronunciation

To pronounce “¿Qué significa eso?” correctly, break it down as follows:

• ¿Qué – keh
• significa – seeg-nee-fee-kah
• eso – eh-soh

Contexts for Use

Here are some examples of different contexts where you might use “¿Qué significa eso?”:

• In a Classroom: When a teacher uses a new word, you can ask, “¿Qué significa eso?” to understand its meaning.
• During a Conversation: If a friend uses slang or a phrase you’re unfamiliar with, you can inquire, “¿Qué significa eso?”
• In a Work Environment: When discussing a project, if someone mentions a term you don’t know, asking “¿Qué significa eso?” can clarify your understanding.

Grammar Rules and Expressions

When using “¿Qué significa eso?”, it’s important to note the following:

• Use “¿Qué” to ask “what”.
• “significa” is the third person singular form of the verb “significar,” meaning “to mean.”
• “eso” translates to “that,” referring to something previously mentioned or observed.

Practical Examples

Here are some practical examples of how to use “¿Qué significa eso?” in sentences:

• Cuando escuché la palabra “serendipia”, pregunté: “¿Qué significa eso?” (When I heard the word “serendipity,” I asked: “What does that mean?”)
• En la reunión, alguien dijo “KPIs” y yo pregunté: “¿Qué significa eso?” (In the meeting, someone said “KPIs” and I asked: “What does that mean?”)

Tips for Practicing and Remembering

To effectively practice and remember the phrase “¿Qué significa eso?”, consider the following tips:

• Use flashcards to memorize the phrase and its pronunciation.
• Engage in conversations with native Spanish speakers and ask them to explain unfamiliar terms.
• Watch Spanish movies or shows and practice asking “¿Qué significa eso?” when you encounter new vocabulary.

FAQ

What is the literal translation of “¿Qué significa eso?”?

The literal translation is “What does that mean?”

Can I use “¿Qué significa eso?” in formal situations?

Yes, it is appropriate to use in both formal and informal contexts.

Are there other ways to ask for meaning in Spanish?

Yes, you can also say “¿Qué quiere decir eso?” which means “What does that mean?”