How to Say “Ok” in Spanish

Ways to say it

The various forms of 'ok' in Spanish are used to signal acknowledgement, acceptance or understanding. For example, ya functions as a colloquial acknowledgement to show you understand or see what someone is saying, much like 'I see'. Relatedly, visto bueno and OK can be used as nouns meaning an endorsement or approval and bien can be used as an adjective meaning 'all right' or 'permitted'.

Which one should you use?

The choice of word depends on the level of explicitness and formality required. De acuerdo is a more formal and explicit way to state that you are in agreement compared to the more casual vale or OK. Bueno often serves as a colloquial filler word, similar to starting an English sentence with 'Well…'.

Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?

For formal or professional settings, de acuerdo is the preferred way to express that you have agreed. In contrast, OK is an English loanword that is widely used in informal settings. Está bien provides a relaxed and informal way to express agreement.

Is it said differently in some regions?

In Spain, vale is the most common way to say 'ok'. In Argentina, people often use bueno to mean 'ok'. In Mexico, you might hear claro to express agreement, meaning 'clear'.

Related words

Endorsement, approval (noun): visto bueno, OK.

All right, permitted (adj): bien.

How do you pronounce it?

/ˈbale/