uno, dos, tres, ya
/ˈuno ˈdos ˈtɾes ˈʝa/word by word
The English phrase "one, two, three, go" is translated into Spanish as uno, dos, tres, ya.
This phrase is used to synchronize a group of people performing a single physical action, such as lifting a heavy object or starting a race.
What does it mean word for word?
The word ya literally means "now" or "already", serving as the signal for the action to begin.
Which one should you use?
While English speakers use "go" to signal the start, Spanish speakers use ya to signal the immediate start of the action.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈuno ˈdos ˈtɾes ˈʝa/
Did you know?
- While ya signals the start in this phrase, it is also used in many Spanish dialects to tell someone to stop doing something immediately.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, people use a la de tres to mean 'on the count of three', implying the action happens on the third number rather than after it.
- The word ya is a close relative of the French word déjà, which is why they both share the concept of something having 'already' happened.
Examples in context
- A la de tres, uno, dos, tres, ya.On three, one, two, three, go.
- ¡Uno, dos, tres, ya! ¡Saltad!One, two, three, go! Jump!
- Preparados… uno, dos, tres, ya.Ready… one, two, three, go.
Example conversation
Elena and Daniel are getting ready to start a race.
- Elena¿Estás listo, Daniel?Are you ready, Daniel?
- DanielSí, estoy preparado.Yes, I am prepared.
- Elena¡Uno, dos, tres, ya!One, two, three, go!
- Daniel¡Corramos!Let's run!
