When it comes to expressing the notion of “hurry up” in Spanish, there are various phrases and expressions you can use, depending on the context, level of formality, and the region you are in. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “hurry up” in Spanish, providing you with plenty of tips, examples, and even a few regional variations.
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Formal Ways to Say “Hurry Up” in Spanish
Formal situations call for a more professional tone, so it’s important to use polite expressions when requesting someone to hurry. Here are a few phrases you can use:
1. Apúrese
This is a standard, formal way to say “hurry up” in Spanish. It is often used in professional settings or when addressing someone you are not familiar with. For example:
Por favor, apúrese. Tenemos una reunión importante en cinco minutos.
Please, hurry up. We have an important meeting in five minutes.
2. Dése prisa
Similar to “apúrese,” this phrase can be used in formal situations to convey the idea of “hurry up.” Here’s an example:
Doctora, dése prisa. El paciente necesita su atención inmediata.
Doctor, hurry up. The patient needs your immediate attention.
Informal Ways to Say “Hurry Up” in Spanish
Informal situations allow for a more relaxed and casual tone. Here are a few commonly used phrases to express “hurry up” informally:
1. Date prisa
This phrase is commonly used among friends, family, or in casual settings. Let’s see an example:
¡Vamos, date prisa! El concierto empieza en media hora.
Come on, hurry up! The concert starts in half an hour.
2. Apúrate
A colloquial way to say “hurry up” in Spanish, often used among friends or informal situations. Here’s an example:
¡Apúrate, nos perderemos el inicio de la película!
Hurry up, we’ll miss the beginning of the movie!
Regional Variations
Spanish is a diverse language spoken in various regions across the globe. While the phrases mentioned above are commonly used across many Spanish-speaking countries, there can be regional variations. Here’s one example:
1. Dále candela (Caribbean Variation)
In some Caribbean countries, such as the Dominican Republic, you may hear the phrase “dále candela” to convey the sense of urgency. Here’s an example:
¡Dále candela, que llegamos tarde al partido!
Hurry up, we’re late for the game!
Extra Tips and Considerations
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when using these expressions:
- Always consider your tone and the context in which you are using these phrases. Being polite is essential.
- Accompany your request with gestures, such as pointing to a clock or indicating the urgency visually when appropriate.
- Remember that the tone and urgency can also be conveyed through your voice and body language.
- Pay attention to phrasal verbs and idiomatic expressions related to the concept of “hurry up” in Spanish. For example, “darse prisa” literally means “to hurry oneself up.”
Now armed with a variety of ways to say “hurry up” in Spanish, both formally and informally, you can confidently express your sense of urgency in different situations. Remember to adapt your choice of phrase based on the level of formality and the region you are in. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
