Greeting someone on the phone is a common practice in every culture. When referring to an incoming call, it’s important to know the appropriate phrases to use in Spanish, both in formal and informal contexts. In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to say “incoming call” in Spanish, providing tips, examples, and regional variations where necessary.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Expressions
When speaking formally in Spanish, you’ll typically want to convey politeness and respect. Here are a few phrases commonly used to refer to an incoming call:
1. Llamada entrante: This is the most common and straightforward way to say “incoming call” in a formal context. It’s suitable for professional settings and formal conversations. For example:
• Disculpe, hay una llamada entrante para usted. (Excuse me, there’s an incoming call for you.)
2. Llamada en espera: This expression is commonly used when referring to an incoming call that interrupts an ongoing call. It literally translates to “call on hold.” Here’s an example:
• Estoy en una llamada en espera. Por favor, espere un momento. (I’m on an incoming call. Please wait a moment.)
2. Informal Expressions
In more casual or informal settings, you can use different phrases to refer to an incoming call. Here are a few informal expressions in Spanish:
1. Llamada que entra: It’s a relaxed and colloquial way to say “incoming call” among friends or in informal conversations. For instance:
• ¡Oye, ahí tienes una llamada que entra! (Hey, there’s an incoming call for you!)
2. Llamada en curso: This expression refers to an ongoing call that is being interrupted by another call. It’s a more informal way to mention an incoming call. Here’s an example:
• Lo siento, tengo una llamada en curso. Te llamo más tarde. (Sorry, I have an incoming call. I’ll call you back later.)
3. Regional Variations
Spanish is spoken in various countries, and each region may have its own unique expressions or variations. While the phrases mentioned earlier are widely understood across Spanish-speaking countries, here are a few regional variations:
1. Llamada entrante/que entra/que llega: These expressions are accepted in all regions and are commonly used in Spain, Mexico, and most Latin American countries.
2. Llamada recibida: This phrase is commonly used in Argentina and Uruguay. It literally translates to “received call.” For example:
• Espere un momento, tengo una llamada recibida. (Please wait a moment, I have an incoming call.)
4. Additional Tips and Examples
Here are a few additional tips and examples to enhance your understanding of saying “incoming call” in Spanish:
- When answering a call, a common phrase in Spanish is “diga” (say) or “¿aló?” (hello?).
- If you receive a call and want to ask the caller to hold, you can say “un momento, por favor” (one moment, please).
- Alternatively, if you want to ask someone to answer the phone, you can use “contesta el teléfono” (answer the phone).
- To politely excuse yourself to answer an incoming call, you can say “permíteme contestar esta llamada” (allow me to answer this call).
Remember, context and the level of formality will determine which expression is most suitable. If in doubt, it’s always safer to use the formal expressions mentioned earlier. Practice these phrases and pay attention to the local dialect if you’re speaking with native Spanish speakers to ensure effective communication.
Now you’re well-equipped to handle incoming calls in Spanish, whether in formal or informal situations. ¡Buena suerte (good luck) and happy conversing!
