hablo en serio
/ablo en seɾjo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "I am serious" is translated into Spanish as hablo en serio.
This phrase is used to emphasize that you are not joking and that you mean what you have said. You can also use Me lo tomo en serio to emphasize that you take something seriously.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase hablo en serio literally translates to "I speak in seriousness".
Which one should you use?
There is a distinction between your current intent and your personality. Use hablo en serio to indicate that you are not joking right now, whereas soy serio means you have a serious personality.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid saying estoy serio to mean you are not joking. In Spanish, estoy serio usually refers to your physical facial expression or demeanor at a specific moment.
Did you know?
- In some regions, using the word serio to describe a person can be a subtle insult, implying the person is boring or lacks a sense of humor.
- If you tell someone estoy serio while they are teasing you, they may think you are sulking or offended rather than simply stating you are being earnest.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, people use the phrase en serio? with a rising intonation to express disbelief, similar to the English 'Really?' or 'You're kidding!'
Examples in context
- ¡Sí, en serio!Yes, I'm serious!
- No es una broma, hablo en serio.It is not a joke, I am serious.
- Te lo digo, hablo en serio.I am telling you, I am serious.
- Mira mis ojos, hablo en serio.Look into my eyes, I am serious.
Example conversation
Alejandro is telling Sofía about a potential job opportunity.
- AlejandroSofía, te ofrezco este nuevo trabajo.Sofía, I am offering you this new job.
- Sofía¿Me estás tomando el pelo?Are you pulling my leg?
- AlejandroNo, hablo en serio.No, I am serious.
- Sofía¡Qué buena noticia, Alejandro!What great news, Alejandro!
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
