¿me das postre?
The English phrase "can I have dessert" is translated into Spanish as ¿me das postre?
This phrase is used to request a sweet course at the end of a meal.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase ¿me das postre? literally translates to "Will you give me dessert?" using the verb dar (to give).
Which one should you use?
The default form ¿me das postre? uses the informal tú conjugation, which is suitable for casual settings or if you are already familiar with the server.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Argentina, a common way to ask for dessert is ¿Me traes un postre?, which means "Could you bring me a dessert?"
How does it change in a sentence?
If you want to refer to a specific dessert that is being offered or is currently available, you can add the definite article el before postre, resulting in ¿me das el postre?
Did you know?
- In traditional Spanish dining, a common postre is simply a piece of seasonal fruit or a slice of melon and ham, which defies the English expectation of something sugary.
- The word postre shares an ancient root with the English word 'posterior', as both derive from the Latin 'posterus' meaning 'coming after'.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, it is common to order a café solo or café cortado along with postre to balance the sweetness of the course.
Examples in context
- ¡Qué rico! ¿Me das postre?How delicious! Can I have dessert?
- Mamá, ¿me das postre?Mom, can I have dessert?
Example conversation
Mateo is finishing his dinner at home.
- MateoYa terminé mi cena, ¿me das postre?I finished my dinner, can I have dessert?
- ElenaSí, Mateo, pero primero lava tus manos.Yes, Mateo, but first wash your hands.
- MateoEstá bien, voy rápido.Okay, I'll be quick.
- ElenaTengo manzana y flan para ti.I have apple and flan for you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries me, postre, CC BY-SA 4.0.