¿Cómo está usted?
The English phrase "how are you doing? (formal)" is translated into Spanish as ¿Cómo está usted?
This phrase is a polite greeting used to ask about someone's well-being in a formal context.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of cómo (how), está (are/is) and usted (you, formal).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The inclusion of the pronoun usted makes this version appropriate for professional settings or when speaking to elders and strangers.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb está is the third-person singular conjugation of estar, which is used with the formal pronoun usted.
When do people say it?
A common and polite way to respond to this greeting is Muy bien, gracias.
Did you know?
- The formal 'you' usted is a shortened version of the phrase vuestra merced, which means 'your grace' or 'your mercy'.
- In Colombia, usted is frequently used even among close friends, partners and children in certain social circles.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, using usted with a family member is a sign of deep respect or affection rather than formality.
Examples in context
- Buenos días, ¿cómo está usted?Good morning, how are you doing?
Example conversation
Sofía meets Daniel, her new boss, for the first time.
- SofíaBuenos días, señor Daniel. ¿Cómo está usted?Good morning, Mr. Daniel. How are you doing?
- DanielMuy bien, gracias. ¿Y usted, Sofía?Very well, thank you. And you, Sofia?
- SofíaEstoy muy bien, gracias por preguntar.I am doing very well, thank you for asking.
- DanielMe alegro mucho. Bienvenida a la oficina.I am very glad. Welcome to the office.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cómo, usted, CC BY-SA 4.0.
