no hablo español
/ˌno ˌablo espaˈɲol/
The English phrase "I don't speak spanish" is expressed in Spanish as no hablo español.
This phrase is a statement used to inform someone that you do not have the ability to communicate in the Spanish language.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of no (not), hablo (I speak) and español (Spanish).
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb hablo is the first-person singular present indicative form of hablar (to speak).
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌno ˌablo espaˈɲol/
Did you know?
- The word español likely comes from a Punic word meaning 'coast of hyraxes'.
- Spanish speakers may use no hablo español as a humble way to describe their skill, even if they can actually speak the language moderately well.
Examples in context
- No hablo español.I don't speak Spanish.Tatoeba #961302 by Shishir, translation #960034 by Sonoriuxo
- Lo siento, no hablo español. ¿Hablas inglés?I'm sorry, I don't speak Spanish. Do you speak English?
- Disculpe, ¿puede ayudarme? No entiendo español. Necesito encontrar este lugar.Excuse me, can you help me? I don't understand Spanish. I need to find this place.
Example conversation
A tourist asks for directions in a Spanish market.
- María¿Dónde está la estación de tren?Where is the train station?
- AlejandroNo hablo español, lo siento.I don't speak Spanish, I'm sorry.
- MaríaAh, ¿habla inglés?Oh, do you speak English?
- AlejandroSí, un poco.Yes, a little.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry no hablo español, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries español, no, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
