igualmente
/iˌɡwalˈmente/
The English phrase 'back at you' can be translated into Spanish as igualmente.
In Spanish, igualmente is used to respond to positive wishes such as 'Have a great day' or 'Nice to meet you'. It functions as a way to say 'likewise' or 'you too'.
Meaning: same to you (prep_phrase)
Which one should you use?
While English speakers often use the phrase 'back at you', the Spanish response igualmente is a concise, single-word option that is more common than attempting a literal translation of the English idiom. For a more enthusiastic response, you can use ¡Lo mismo digo!, which translates to 'I say the same!' or 'Back at you!'
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Igualmente can also be used in informal settings to express reciprocity. In strictly formal settings, you may use A usted también to politely mirror good wishes or kindness toward someone you address formally.
How do you pronounce it?
/iˌɡwalˈmente/
Did you know?
- The suffix -mente in igualmente is an evolution of the Latin word mente, which originally meant 'mind'.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, responding to a dining wish with igualmente is avoided in favor of repeating buen provecho to honor the specific social ritual of the meal.
- In certain Latin American social circles, using only igualmente can be perceived as clipped or abrupt compared to longer, warmer phrases.
Examples in context
- A usted también.To you too.
- ¡Lo mismo digo!I say the same!/Back at you!
- ¡Feliz Navidad! ¡Igualmente!Merry Christmas! Same to you!
- ¡Igualmente, que tengas un buen día!Same to you, have a nice day!
- ¡Igualmente para ti!Same to you!
Example conversation
María and Mateo are leaving a coffee shop.
- María¡Que tengas un buen fin de semana, Mateo!Have a good weekend, Mateo!
- MateoMuchas gracias, igualmente.Thank you very much, same to you.
- María¡Adiós!Goodbye!
- Mateo¡Hasta luego!See you later!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry igualmente, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries igualmente, CC BY-SA 4.0.
