mira esto
/miɾa esto/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'check this out' can be translated into Spanish as mira esto.
The phrase is used to draw someone's attention to something interesting or surprising.
What does it mean word for word?
This phrase is composed of the imperative verb mira (look) and the demonstrative pronoun esto (this).
Which one should you use?
While mira esto is a direct command to look, it is the most common way to translate the idiomatic 'check this out' when drawing attention to an object or situation.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form mira esto uses the informal imperative (tú), which is appropriate for friends or peers. To use this phrase in a formal setting or when addressing a stranger, change mira to mire.
How do you pronounce it?
/miɾa esto/
Did you know?
- In Spain, when someone wants to say 'check this out' in a very colloquial or slangy way, they might use the word ojo, which literally translates to 'eye'.
- While mira esto is common, some speakers use the word checa (from the English 'check') in Mexico and the US, creating a hybrid phrase like checa esto.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, people say mira as a filler word to start a sentence, even when they are not asking anyone to look at anything.
Examples in context
- ¡Mira esto! ¡Es el nuevo teléfono que tanto quería!Check this out! It's the new phone I've been wanting so badly!
- ¡Mira esto! Es un video muy gracioso.Check this out! It is a very funny video.
- Mira esto, encontré tu libro en la calle.Check this out, I found your book on the street.
- Mira esto, ¡el paisaje es increíble!Check this out, the landscape is incredible!
Example conversation
Elena shows Mateo a cool gadget she just bought.
- ElenaMateo, mira esto, es un reloj nuevo.Mateo, check this out, it is a new watch.
- Mateo¡Guau! Es muy elegante, Elena.Wow! It is very elegant, Elena.
- ElenaSí, y tiene muchas funciones tecnológicas.Yes, and it has many technological functions.
- MateoMe encanta, te queda muy bien.I love it, it looks great on you.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
