que Dios esté contigo
/ke djos este kontiɡo/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'may God be with you' is translated into Spanish as que Dios esté contigo.
This phrase is used to wish someone divine protection and guidance.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, the phrase translates to 'that God be with you'. The word que functions as a particle used to introduce a wish.
Which one should you use?
The form que Dios esté contigo is used when speaking to one person informally. For a single person in a formal context, use con usted instead of contigo and use con ustedes when addressing a group. Another common way to express this sentiment is Dios te acompañe.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the subjunctive mood in the word esté to express a wish or desire rather than a statement of fact.
Did you know?
- The word contigo is actually a double construction, meaning 'with you with' because it combines the preposition 'con' with the Latin 'tecum'.
- While the phrase que Dios esté contigo is religious, it is frequently used as a standard heartfelt farewell in Spanish culture even by people who do not practice any faith.
Examples in context
- Que Dios esté contigo en tu entrevista.May God be with you in your interview.
- Que Dios te acompañe en tu viaje.May God accompany you on your journey.
- Ve con cuidado, que Dios esté contigo.Go carefully, may God be with you.
- Que Dios esté contigo en este viaje.May God be with you on this journey.
- Te deseo lo mejor, que Dios esté contigo.I wish you the best, may God be with you.
Example conversation
Alejandro is leaving for a long trip and says goodbye to María.
- MaríaBuen viaje, Alejandro.Have a good trip, Alejandro.
- AlejandroMuchas gracias, María.Thank you very much, María.
- MaríaQue Dios esté contigo siempre.May God be with you always.
- AlejandroAmén, gracias por tus palabras.Amen, thank you for your words.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Dios, contigo, dios, que, CC BY-SA 4.0.
