yo
/ˈʝo/
The English phrase "i" is translated into Spanish as yo.
While it means "I", it is frequently omitted in regular conversation unless emphasis is needed. Including yo often serves to add emphasis or contrast, much like saying "I, personally" or "As for me" in English.
Meaning: personal pronoun (pron)
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
In Spanish, the subject pronoun yo is often omitted because the verb conjugation already indicates that the subject is "I". For example, in the phrase Yo hablo (I speak), the subject is clearly identified, but in many contexts, the yo is left out. Using it is a way to provide extra emphasis on the person performing the action.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʝo/
Did you know?
- The Spanish yo shares a common ancestor with the English word 'ego', both stemming from the same Latin root 'egō'.
- The pronunciation of yo varies wildly across the globe, sounding like a soft 'y' in Mexico, a 'zh' sound in Argentina, and even a 'sh' sound in parts of Uruguay.
- In Spanish, saying yo in response to a question like Who wants cake? is common, but in a full sentence, adding it can sound unexpectedly aggressive or narcissistic to native speakers.
Examples in context
- Yo sí te amo.I do love you.This sentence demonstrates the use of yo to express affection.Tatoeba #1246286 by marcelostockle, translation #71454 by CK
- Yo no vi nada.I saw nothing.This sentence shows how yo functions in a negative observation.Tatoeba #497573 by Shishir, translation #256395 by CK
- Yo no lo hice.I did not do it.This sentence illustrates the use of yo when stating that one did not perform an action.Tatoeba #625873 by Leono, translation #625872 by Leono
- Yo estoy interesado en el puesto de trabajoI am interested in the job position
- Buenos días, ¿con quién habla?Good morning, who am I speaking with?
- Tengo hambreI am hungry
- 1953 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
María and Daniel are deciding who will go to the store.
- MaríaYo puedo ir a la tienda.I can go to the store.
- Daniel¿Estás segura, María?Are you sure, María?
- MaríaSí, yo tengo tiempo ahora.Yes, I have time now.
- DanielGracias, entonces voy a descansar.Thanks, then I am going to rest.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “i” translations and entries yo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries yo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
