Are you interested in learning how to say “desde” in Spanish? This versatile word can be quite useful when expressing various concepts like “since,” “from,” or “starting from.” In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to use “desde” in Spanish. Additionally, we’ll provide you with numerous tips and examples to ensure a clear understanding of its usage. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Desde”
When you need to use “desde” in a formal context, such as in business or professional settings, you can utilize the following phrases:
1.1 Desde hace
“Desde hace” is commonly used to express actions that started in the past and continue in the present. It is equivalent to the English phrase “since” or “for.”
Example: Trabajo en esta empresa desde hace cinco años. (I have been working in this company for five years.)
1.2 Desde que
“Desde que” is used to indicate the start of an action or event. It is similar to “since” or “from the moment.”
Example: Estudio español desde que tenía diez años. (I have been studying Spanish since I was ten years old.)
1.3 Desde entonces
“Desde entonces” refers to actions that started in the past and continue in the present. It is equivalent to “since then.”
Example: No he vuelto a verla desde entonces. (I haven’t seen her since then.)
2. Informal Ways to Say “Desde”
When you’re in a casual or informal setting, you can use the following expressions to convey the meaning of “desde”:
2.1 Desde hace
The informal usage of “desde hace” is similar to the formal version. It denotes actions that started in the past and continue in the present.
Example: Juego fútbol desde hace dos años. (I have been playing soccer for two years.)
2.2 Desde
In informal conversations, you can simply use “desde” without the preposition “hace” to express actions that started in the past and continue in the present.
Example: Vivo aquí desde principios del año. (I have been living here since the beginning of the year.)
3. Tips for Using “Desde” Correctly
Now that you have a better understanding of how to say “desde” in Spanish, here are some tips to ensure its correct usage:
3.1 Pay Attention to Verb Tenses
The tense of the verb used after “desde” must match the intended meaning. For actions that continue in the present, use present perfect or present indicative tenses.
Example: He trabajado aquí desde 2010. (I have been working here since 2010.)
3.2 Verb Agreement for Plural Nouns
When expressing a plural noun after “desde,” it is crucial to maintain subject-verb agreement.
Example: Han aumentado los precios desde el mes pasado. (Prices have increased since last month.)
3.3 Use “Desde” in Time Expressions
“Desde” often appears in expressions related to time or duration. It helps establish a starting point for an action or event.
Example: Trabajaré desde el lunes hasta el viernes. (I will work from Monday until Friday.)
4. Differences in Regional Usage
The usage of “desde” doesn’t significantly vary across different regions where Spanish is spoken. However, keep in mind that regional dialects and idiomatic expressions can exist, leading to slight differences in usage. It is always beneficial to immerse yourself in the specific dialect or region to better understand variations in vocabulary, pronunciation, and phrasing.
Conclusion
Knowing how to say “desde” in different contexts, both formal and informal, is a valuable skill in Spanish. By familiarizing yourself with the various phrases and tips provided in this guide, you can confidently express actions or events that started in the past. Remember to pay attention to verb tenses, noun agreement, and time expressions to ensure accurate usage. Practice using “desde” in sentences and immerse yourself in the Spanish language to become more comfortable with its usage. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
