What does it mean word for word?
The word tráeme is a combination of the imperative verb trae (bring) and the indirect object pronoun me (to me).
Which one should you use?
While tráeme comida is an imperative command, you can make it a polite request by adding por favor (please) to the end.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
To be more respectful, such as when speaking to a waiter or someone you do not know well, you should use the formal tráigame comida. In formal settings, you might also use the phrase Me podría traer algo de comida, por favor to ask, 'Could you bring me some food, please?'
How does it change in a sentence?
If you are referring to a specific type of food that has already been mentioned, you can attach the direct object pronoun la (it) to the end of the verb to say tráemela (bring it to me).
Did you know?
- In many Spanish speaking countries, the word comida does not just mean 'food' but specifically refers to the main meal of the day, which is typically eaten between 2 pm and 4 pm.
- The word comida shares a Latin root with the English word 'comestible', which describes anything that is safe to eat.
- The word manjar is used to describe 'food' that is an exquisite delicacy, and it is often used metaphorically to describe something visually beautiful or highly desirable.
Examples in context
- Discúlpeme, ¿podría traerme algo de comida?Excuse me, could you bring me some food?
- ¡Hey! ¿Me traes un bocadillo?Hey! Could you bring me a snack?
- Tráeme comida, por favor.Bring me food, please.
- Tengo mucha hambre, tráeme comida.I am very hungry, bring me food.
- Si vas a la cocina, tráeme comida.If you are going to the kitchen, bring me food.
Example conversation
Lucía and Mateo are relaxing at home on a Sunday afternoon.
- LucíaMateo, tráeme comida.Mateo, bring me food.
- Mateo¿Quieres algo de la nevera?Do you want something from the fridge?
- LucíaSí, lo que encuentres.Yes, whatever you find.
- MateoEstá bien, voy ahora.Okay, I'm going now.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries comida, CC BY-SA 4.0.
