uno a uno
/uno a uno/from spelling rules
The Spanish phrase for "one on one" is uno a uno.
The phrase uno a uno can refer to a direct interaction or competition between two people. However, in many contexts, it is used to mean "one by one" or "individually," such as when checking items in a sequence. To convey a one-on-one setting, you might also use En privado (in private) or in an informal context, the phrase Solo tú y yo (just you and me).
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of uno (one), a (to/by) and uno (one), literally meaning "one to one".
Which one should you use?
While uno a uno can describe a competition, cara a cara (face to face) is often a more natural way to describe a direct, personal meeting or confrontation between two people. If you want to specifically emphasize a competitive match or a duel, you can use uno contra uno (one against one).
How do you pronounce it?
/uno a uno/
Did you know?
- While uno a uno can mean 'one on one', the term mano a mano is widely used in Spanish to describe a duel or direct competition, literally meaning 'hand to hand'.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, a 'one on one' conversation can be referred to as a solas, which literally means 'alone' but implies a private, intimate setting for two people.
- In a sports or gaming setting, many Spanish speakers will bypass the translation entirely and use the English term 'one on one' or the shorthand '1v1' instead of uno a uno.
Examples in context
- Me gustaría hablar con usted a solasI would like to speak with you one on one
- Quisiera discutir este asunto en privadoI would like to discuss this matter one on one
- Quiero aclarar este asunto solo tú y yoI want to clarify this matter one on one, just you and me
- El entrenador quiere hablar uno a uno con el jugador.The coach wants to talk one on one with the player.
- Prefiero las reuniones uno a uno en lugar de las grupales.I prefer one on one meetings instead of group ones.
- Ellos jugaron uno a uno en el torneo de ajedrez.They played one on one in the chess tournament.
Example conversation
Javier and María are discussing their work feedback process.
- Javier¿Podemos hablar uno a uno sobre mi proyecto?Can we talk one on one about my project?
- MaríaSí, Javier, puedo reunirme contigo en diez minutos.Yes, Javier, I can meet with you in ten minutes.
- JavierGracias, María, lo agradezco mucho.Thank you, María, I really appreciate it.
- MaríaNo hay problema, nos vemos en la oficina.No problem, see you in the office.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
