regalo
everyday, Mexico
A gift in Mexican Spanish is a regalo. The verb is regalar, as in Te voy a regalar un libro. It is also called Obsequio and Detalle.
Meaning: something given to another person (noun)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| regalo | everyday, Mexico |
| Obsequio | formal |
| Detalle | small gift |
Mexicans call a small thoughtful present a detalle, as in Te traje un detalle. At formal events the word obsequio appears on invitations and in shops.
Is it said differently in some regions?
A gift table at a wedding is a mesa de regalos, and many Mexican couples register for gifts at a department store.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not use presente for a gift in daily talk. It mostly means present time or someone who is present.
Did you know?
- The phrase No te hubieras molestado is the polite Mexican reply when someone hands you a gift.
Examples in context
- Te compré un regalo.I bought you a gift.
- Le llevé un detalle a mi suegra.I brought my mother-in-law a small gift.
- El obsequio viene en una caja azul.The gift comes in a blue box.
Example conversation
Elena gives her friend Camila a package on her birthday in Cancún.
- ElenaFeliz cumpleaños. Aquí está tu regalo.Happy birthday. Here is your gift.
- Camila¡No te hubieras molestado!You should not have bothered!
- ElenaEs solo un detalle. Ábrelo.It is only a small gift. Open it.
