Learning how to express your birthdate in a foreign language can be a useful skill. If you need to convey that you were born on April 12 in Spanish, this comprehensive guide will help you do just that. We will cover both formal and informal ways to express this information, providing various tips and examples along the way. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
When you’re speaking formally, such as in professional settings or addressing someone with whom you are not familiar, you can use the following phrases to communicate your birthdate:
- “Nací el doce de abril.” (I was born on April 12.)
Note: In Spanish, the verb “nacer” means “to be born.” In this expression, we use the first person singular form “nací,” which corresponds to “I was born.” Don’t forget to mention the specific date using cardinal numbers, like “doce” for twelve.
- “Mi fecha de nacimiento es el doce de abril.” (My birthdate is April 12.)
Tip: Using the phrase “fecha de nacimiento” emphasizes that you are referring to your birthdate. It can be particularly useful if there is any potential for ambiguity in the conversation.
- “El día doce de abril es mi fecha de nacimiento.” (The twelfth of April is my birthdate.)
Tip: This alternative phrasing also works well in formal situations. Remember to highlight the date using cardinal numbers, such as “doce” for twelfth.
Informal Expressions
When speaking informally, such as with friends or family, you have a bit more flexibility in how you express your birthdate. Here are some commonly used informal alternatives:
- “Nací el doce de abril.” (I was born on April 12.)
Tip: The same formal expression mentioned earlier can be used in informal contexts as well, making it a versatile phrase suitable for different situations.
- “Mi cumpleaños es el doce de abril.” (My birthday is April 12.)
Note: In casual conversations, it’s common to use the word “cumpleaños” (birthday) instead of “fecha de nacimiento” (birthdate).
- “El doce de abril es mi cumpleaños.” (April 12 is my birthday.)
Tip: This variation is another informal option that conveys the same meaning. Using “mi cumpleaños” makes it clear that you are talking about your birthday.
Regional Variations
Spanish is spoken in various countries, and while the expressions mentioned above are widely understood across Spanish-speaking regions, there can be slight regional variations. Let’s explore a few:
Mexico
In Mexico, you may also hear the following phrases:
- “Soy nacido el doce de abril.” (I was born on April 12.)
- “Cumplo años el doce de abril.” (I turn a year older on April 12.)
Argentina
In Argentina, you might come across these alternatives:
- “Nací el doce de abril de mil novecientos ochenta.” (I was born on April 12, 1980.)
- “Mi fecha de cumpleaños es el doce de abril.” (My birthday is on April 12.)
Spain
In Spain, people often use these expressions:
- “Nací el doce de abril.” (I was born on April 12.)
- “Mi cumple es el doce de abril.” (My birthday is on April 12.)
Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to further assist you:
Tips:
- When mentioning your birthdate, it’s important to use the right verb form for “to be born” (nacer). For example, “nací” for “I was born,” “naciste” for “you were born,” and so on.
- Spanish uses cardinal numbers to express dates, such as “doce” (twelve) for 12th and “veinticuatro” (twenty-four) for 24th.
- When using the phrase “fecha de nacimiento” (birthdate), make sure to use the correct article. For example, “mi fecha de nacimiento” (my birthdate), or “la fecha de nacimiento” (the birthdate).
Examples:
- “Nací el doce de abril de mil novecientos setenta y dos.” (I was born on April 12, 1972.)
- “Mi cumpleaños es el doce de abril, así que vamos a celebrar juntos.” (My birthday is on April 12, so let’s celebrate together.)
Now armed with multiple formal and informal expressions to convey your birthdate, as well as some regional variations, you’ll have no trouble communicating this information in Spanish. Remember to adapt your choice of expression based on the context and the level of formality. Happy language learning!
