quiero invitarte a salir
/kjeɾo imbitaɾte a saliɾ/from spelling rules
The English phrase "I want to take you on a date" can be translated into Spanish as quiero invitarte a salir.
This phrase is the standard way to suggest a romantic outing, as Spanish does not have a single direct equivalent for the noun "a date" used in this specific way. It is used to express a desire to go out with someone for a romantic encounter.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase quiero invitarte a salir literally translates to "I want to invite you to go out", where invitarte is the verb invitar (to invite) combined with the pronoun te (you).
Which one should you use?
While quiero invitarte a salir is more natural for the act of going out, quiero invitarte a una cita can be used to be more explicit about the romantic nature of the meeting, as it translates to "I want to invite you to a date".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American countries, it is common to say Quisiera invitarte a salir.
How do you pronounce it?
/kjeɾo imbitaɾte a saliɾ/
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, saying invitarte implies that you will be the one paying for the entire outing.
- While cita means 'date', it is also the standard word for a professional appointment, such as a visit to the dentist.
- The word salir originally meant 'to jump' in Latin, but over time its meaning shifted to 'leaving' or 'going out'.
Examples in context
- Te lo digo de verdad, quiero invitarte a salir.I am telling you truly, I want to take you on a date.
- María, quiero invitarte a salir este fin de semana.María, I want to take you on a date this weekend.
- Si me dejas, quiero invitarte a salir a cenar.If you let me, I want to take you out on a date for dinner.
Example conversation
Alejandro approaches María at a cafe to ask her out.
- AlejandroMaría, ¿tienes tiempo para hablar?María, do you have time to talk?
- MaríaSí, Alejandro, dime.Yes, Alejandro, tell me.
- AlejandroLa verdad es que quiero invitarte a salir.The truth is that I want to take you on a date.
- MaríaMe encantaría, me parece muy lindo.I would love that, I think it's very sweet.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
