Parla anglès?
[ˈpar.lə əŋˈɡle̞s]word by word
The English phrase "do you speak english?" is translated into Catalan as Parla anglès?
This phrase is used to ask if a person has the ability to communicate using the English language.
Which one should you use?
Parla anglès? is the formal singular form used when addressing one person. If you are addressing a group of people, you must use the plural form Parleu anglès?
How does it change in a sentence?
The form Parles anglès? is used when addressing someone informally, such as a friend or a peer, by using the second-person singular tu. The form Parla anglès? uses the third-person singular to express the formal you (vostè), which is appropriate when speaking to strangers or elders. Another variation is Saps parlar anglès?, which asks if someone knows how to speak English.
When do people say it?
If you are asked this question and can only communicate with a limited amount of English, a common and natural response is Sí, una mica.
Did you know?
- The word parlar used in this phrase is a linguistic relative of the English word 'parley' meaning a conference between opposing sides to discuss terms.
- In Catalonia, if you use the informal Parles anglès? with an elderly person or a stranger in a professional setting, it can be perceived as unexpectedly blunt or even rude.
- The Catalan word for English, anglès, is derived from the name of the 'Angles', a Germanic tribe that migrated to Britain in the 5th century.
Examples in context
- Perdó, parla anglès?Excuse me, do you speak English?
Example conversation
Jordi is asking Montserrat for help at a tourist office.
- JordiHola, Montserrat, parla anglès?Hello, Montserrat, do you speak English?
- MontserratSí, parlo anglès molt bé.Yes, I speak English very well.
- JordiQue bé! Necessito ajuda amb el mapa.That's great! I need help with the map.
- MontserratI tant, digui-me què busca.Of course, tell me what you are looking for.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (parla, anglès) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries anglès, parla, CC BY-SA 4.0.
