órdenes
/oɾdenes/from spelling rules
The English phrase commands is translated into Spanish as órdenes.
órdenes refers to instructions given by someone in authority that must be obeyed. To express the actual action of giving such instructions, use the verb ordenar.
Which one should you use?
While órdenes refers to the specific instructions or orders themselves, the verb ordenar refers to the act of issuing them.
How does it change in a sentence?
Negative commands are formed by placing no before the verb, such as No hables (Don't speak!). Some commands are irregular, such as Ve a la tienda (Go to the store!), which uses the verb ir.
How do you pronounce it?
/oɾdenes/
Did you know?
- In Spanish, the verb ordenar is used both for giving commands and for placing an order at a restaurant. While English distinguishes between 'ordering a soldier' and 'ordering a pizza', Spanish uses the same root for both.
- The verb mandar can be used to mean 'to send' something or someone, such as an email or a messenger. This creates a semantic link between sending a message and commanding an action through that message.
- Spanish speakers may use the word mandato to describe a political term of office, such as a presidential term, rather than a direct command.
Examples in context
- Tus deseos son órdenes.Your wishes are my commands.This sentence uses órdenes to show how wishes can be treated as commands.Tatoeba #1503230 by marcelostockle, translation #1525948 by marcelostockle
- No puedo desobedecer las órdenes del capitán.I cannot disobey the captain's orders.
- Los soldados recibieron órdenes claras.The soldiers received clear orders.
Example conversation
Elena and Daniel are working on a project together.
- ElenaDaniel, ¿ya recibiste las órdenes del jefe?Daniel, did you already receive the boss's commands?
- DanielSí, Elena, me enviaron un correo hace poco.Yes, Elena, they sent me an email a short while ago.
- ElenaEntonces tenemos que seguir sus órdenes ahora.Then we have to follow his commands now.
- DanielTienes razón, empecemos a trabajar ya.You're right, let's start working now.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
