What does it mean word for word?
The phrase ¿me das un vaso de agua? literally translates to 'Will you give me a glass of water?'
Which one should you use?
The default form ¿me das un vaso de agua? uses the 'tú' (informal) conjugation, which is appropriate for friends, family or people your own age. You can use ¿Puedo tomar un poco de agua? to mean 'Can I have some water?' or the more elaborate ¿Sería posible que me trajeran un vaso de agua, por favor? to mean 'Would it be possible for you to bring me a glass of water, please?' You may also use ¿Podría pedir un poco de agua, por favor? to mean 'May I request some water, please?'
How does it change in a sentence?
Changing the verb from das to da makes the request formal and polite when addressing a stranger or an elder to say ¿me da un vaso de agua?
Did you know?
- Although agua is a feminine noun, it takes the masculine article un instead of una to avoid the clashing 'a' sounds at the start of the word.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, asking for agua in a restaurant usually results in receiving 'agua mineral' or bottled water rather than free tap water.
- When ordering agua in a restaurant, you may be asked if you want it natural or con gas.
Examples in context
- Por favor, ¿me podrías servir agua? Gracias.Please, could you serve me some water? Thank you.
- Oye, ¿me das un vaso de agua, por favor?Hey, can you give me a glass of water, please?
- Sí, claro. Aquí tienes.Yes, of course. Here you go.
- Tengo mucha sed, ¿me das un vaso de agua?I am very thirsty, can I get a glass of water?
- Si no es molestia, ¿me das un vaso de agua?If it's not too much trouble, can I get a glass of water?
Example conversation
Mateo is visiting María's house and feels thirsty.
- MateoHola, María. ¿Me das un vaso de agua?Hi, María. Can I get a glass of water?
- MaríaSí, claro, Mateo. Un momento, por favor.Yes, of course, Mateo. One moment, please.
- MateoMuchas gracias, eres muy amable.Thank you very much, you are very kind.
- MaríaDe nada. Aquí tienes.You're welcome. Here you go.
