vale mamá
/bale mama/from spelling rules
The English phrase "ok mom" can be translated into Spanish as vale mamá.
This phrase is an informal way to agree with or acknowledge something said by one's mother.
Which one should you use?
While vale mamá is a quick, informal acknowledgment, está bien mamá (it's fine mom) is a slightly more complete way to express agreement or that something is acceptable.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The use of vale to mean "ok" is characteristic of Peninsular Spanish (Spain).
How does it change in a sentence?
The accent mark on the final á in mamá is essential. Without it, the word is pronounced differently and has a different meaning.
How do you pronounce it?
/bale mama/
Did you know?
- If you forget the accent mark on mamá and write mama, you are no longer talking to a mother but are instead referring to a 'breast' or the act of 'suckling' in many Spanish-speaking contexts.
- The word vale used as 'ok' originally comes from the Latin command valē, which meant 'be well' or 'farewell'.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, adults continue to use the diminutive mamita instead of mamá to sound more affectionate when agreeing with their mother.
Examples in context
- Vale mamá, iré al supermercado.Ok mom, I will go to the supermarket.
- Vale mamá, no te preocupes.Ok mom, don't worry.
- Vale mamá, ya voy para casa.Ok mom, I am going home now.
Example conversation
Alejandro is at home when Elena calls to remind him to clean his room.
- AlejandroElena, ¿qué pasa?Elena, what's up?
- ElenaAlejandro, limpia tu habitación ahora.Alejandro, clean your room now.
- AlejandroVale mamá, lo haré enseguida.Ok mom, I will do it right away.
- ElenaGracias, hijo.Thanks, son.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mamá, vale, CC BY-SA 4.0.
