sé un poco de español
/se un poko de espaɲol/from spelling rules
To say "I know some spanish" in Spanish, use sé un poco de español.
This phrase is the standard way to communicate that you have a basic or limited proficiency in the language.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "I know a little of Spanish". The word sé means "I know", and the phrase un poco de is used to quantify the knowledge, functioning like "a little bit of" in English.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word sé is the first-person singular present indicative form of the verb saber (to know facts or information).
Did you know?
- The word español likely comes from a Punic word meaning 'coast of hyraxes'.
Examples in context
- Hola a todos. Sé un poco de español, así que espero poder aprender más de ustedes.Hi everyone. I know a little bit of Spanish, so I hope to learn more from you all.
- Sé un poco de español, pero no mucho.I know some Spanish, but not much.
- Solo sé un poco de español.I only know some Spanish.
- No hablo fluido, solo sé un poco de español.I don't speak fluently, I only know some Spanish.
Example conversation
Elena and Javier meet for the first time at a cafe.
- ElenaHola, ¿hablas español?Hi, do you speak Spanish?
- JavierHola, Elena. Sí, sé un poco de español.Hi, Elena. Yes, I know some Spanish.
- Elena¡Qué bien! Podemos practicar juntos.That's great! We can practice together.
- JavierMe parece una idea excelente, Javier.That seems like an excellent idea, Javier.
