un gusto hablar contigo
/un ɡusto ablaɾ kontiɡo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "nice talking to you" can be said in Spanish as un gusto hablar contigo.
This expression is a polite way to signal that you enjoyed a conversation, typically used when the interaction is coming to an end.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase un gusto hablar contigo literally translates to "a pleasure to talk with you".
Which one should you use?
While un gusto hablar contigo is a common way to express this, you can use fue un gusto hablar contigo to form a complete sentence in the past tense by adding the verb "fue" (it was) at the beginning. Other variations include fue agradable hablar contigo for "it was nice talking to you" and me encantó hablar contigo for "I loved talking to you".
How does it change in a sentence?
To shift the phrase from an informal to a formal tone, replace the word contigo with con usted.
How do you pronounce it?
/un ɡusto ablaɾ kontiɡo/
When do people say it?
When someone says this to you, a common and natural response is igualmente, which means "likewise" or "the pleasure was mine".
Did you know?
- The word gusto in this phrase comes from the Latin word for 'taste'.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, it is common to pair this phrase with a light touch on the arm or a handshake to reinforce the warmth of the sentiment.
- While igualmente is the most efficient reply, saying el gusto es mío can actually be seen as a way to 'win' the politeness contest by insisting the honor was entirely yours.
Examples in context
- Fue un gusto hablar contigo.It was nice talking to you.
- Un gusto hablar contigo, nos vemos pronto.Nice talking to you, see you soon.
- Realmente fue un gusto hablar contigo hoy.It really was nice talking to you today.
Example conversation
Lucía and Mateo are saying goodbye after a coffee meeting.
- LucíaBueno, me tengo que ir. Un gusto hablar contigo, Mateo.Well, I have to go. Nice talking to you, Mateo.
- MateoIgualmente, Lucía. Que tengas un buen día.Likewise, Lucía. Have a good day.
- LucíaGracias, ¡hasta la próxima!Thanks, see you next time!
- Mateo¡Adiós!Bye!
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries contigo, gusto, hablar, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
