Quiero enseñarte algo
/kjeɾo enseɲaɾte alɡo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "I want to show you something" is translated into Spanish as Quiero enseñarte algo.
This phrase is used to express a desire to let someone see a specific object or a piece of information.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Quiero enseñarte algo is composed of Quiero (I want), enseñarte (to show to you) and algo (something).
Which one should you use?
While enseñar is the most common way to say "to show", the verb mostrar can also be used, often implying a more formal presentation or the act of displaying an object.
How does it change in a sentence?
The indirect object pronoun te can be placed in two ways: it can be attached to the end of the infinitive as in enseñarte, or it can be placed as a separate word before the conjugated verb as in Te quiero enseñar algo.
How do you pronounce it?
/kjeɾo enseɲaɾte alɡo/
Did you know?
- The verb enseñar has a double meaning and is used for both 'to show' and 'to teach'. In many contexts, Quiero enseñarte algo could be interpreted as 'I want to teach you something'.
- The word algo comes from the Latin word aliquod, which combined 'aliquis' meaning 'some' and 'quod' meaning 'which'.
- While Quiero enseñarte algo is a request, Spanish speakers often use the imperative Mira ('Look') to immediately direct attention, bypassing the expression of desire entirely.
Examples in context
- Quiero enseñarte algo en mi oficina.I want to show you something in my office.This sentence is useful for specifying the location where you want to show the person something using Quiero enseñarte algo.Tatoeba #2667257 by teskmon, translation #2590916 by CK
- ¡Oye! Tengo algo genial que mostrarte.Hey! I have something awesome to show you.
- Si no te importa, quiero mostrarte unas fotos de mis últimas vacaciones.If you don't mind, I want to show you some pictures from my recent vacation.
- Quiero enseñarte algo en la tienda.I want to show you something in the store.
Example conversation
Javier and Sofía are sitting in a cafe.
- JavierSofía, quiero enseñarte algo.Sofia, I want to show you something.
- Sofía¿Qué es, Javier?What is it, Javier?
- JavierEs una foto de mi viaje.It is a photo from my trip.
- Sofía¡Qué bonita es!How beautiful it is!
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries algo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
