¿entiendes inglés?
To say "do you understand english?" in Spanish, you say ¿entiendes inglés?
This phrase is used to ask if someone has the ability to comprehend the English language.
Which one should you use?
The default form ¿entiendes inglés? uses the 'tú' conjugation, which is used for friends, family or people your own age. In contrast, ¿Sabes inglés? is an informal way to ask "Do you know English?"
How does it change in a sentence?
To address a group of two or more people, you should use the plural form ¿entienden inglés?
When do people say it?
When someone asks you this question, a common way to respond affirmatively is Sí, entiendo, while a common way to respond negatively is No, no entiendo.
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, asking ¿entiendes? in a professional setting can sound condescending, as it may imply the listener is struggling to keep up. Using ¿está claro? or ¿me explico? shifts the burden of clarity to the speaker.
- The Spanish word entender shares a root with the English word 'intend'. Both come from the Latin intendere, which originally meant to stretch out or direct one's attention toward something.
- The word inglés is a linguistic traveler that traces its roots back to the Old English word Englisc, passing through Old French to reach modern Spanish.
Examples in context
- Disculpe, ¿entiende inglés?Excuse me, do you understand English?
- Hola, ¿comprendes inglés?Hi, do you comprehend English?
Example conversation
A tourist asks a local woman for help in a park.
- JavierHola, ¿entiendes inglés?Hello, do you understand English?
- LucíaUn poco, ¿qué necesitas?A little, what do you need?
- JavierBusco la estación de tren.I am looking for the train station.
- LucíaEstá muy cerca de aquí.It is very close to here.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries inglés, CC BY-SA 4.0.
