dilo
/dilo/from spelling rules
dilo is the Spanish way to say 'say it'.
dilo is an imperative phrase used to tell someone to say something.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a combination of the imperative form of decir (to say) and the direct object pronoun lo (it).
Which one should you use?
While dilo is a standard command, Dígalo is a formal version that is considered slightly less polite than Expréselo or Manifiéstelo.
How does it change in a sentence?
If you are addressing a group of people, you would use the plural form díganlo instead of dilo.
How do you pronounce it?
/dilo/
Did you know?
- The word dilo is a structural relative of the English word 'diction', as both derive from the Latin root dict-, meaning 'to say'.
- If you are listening to music and hear the command 'dilo' in a reggaeton song, it is often an invitation to the crowd to shout a specific catchphrase or hook along with the singer.
- In many Latin American countries, if someone says 'dilo' during a conversation, they might be playfully challenging you to admit a secret or a truth you are hiding.
Examples in context
- Si tienes algo que decirme, dímelo sin rodeos.If you have something to tell me, just say it straightforwardly.
- Si tienes un secreto, dilo.If you have a secret, say it.
- No te lo guardes, dilo ahora.Don't keep it to yourself, say it now.
- Si sabes la verdad, dilo de una vez.If you know the truth, say it once and for all.
Example conversation
Sofía and Mateo are discussing a piece of news Mateo is hiding.
- Sofía¿Por qué estás tan callado, Mateo?Why are you so quiet, Mateo?
- MateoNo sé si debería contarlo.I don't know if I should tell it.
- SofíaConfío en ti, ¡dilo!I trust you, say it!
- MateoEstá bien, te lo diré.Fine, I will tell you.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
