Bienvenidos! If you’ve ever wondered how to express the concept of “other” in Spanish, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to convey this meaning, both formally and informally. We’ll also discuss any regional variations that may exist. From tips to examples, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Other”
When it comes to more formal situations, there are a few options you can use to express the idea of “other” in Spanish. These expressions maintain a respectful tone and are commonly used in professional or formal settings:
1. Otro
The most straightforward and widely used translation for “other” is otro. It’s a versatile term that can be used for both masculine and feminine nouns. Let’s look at some examples:
Tengo un libro, ¿tienes otro?
(I have one book, do you have another?)
¿Puedes darme otra opción?
(Can you give me another option?)
2. El/La otro/a
Another way to express “other” in a more formal context is by using the definite article with its corresponding gender. Here’s how:
Me gustaría probar la otra opción.
(I would like to try the other option.)
Elige el otro camino.
(Choose the other path.)
Informal Ways to Say “Other”
When it comes to informal situations or friendly conversations, Spanish offers a range of expressions to convey the concept of “other.” Here are some commonly used options:
1. Otro/a
Just like in formal contexts, otro can be used in informal settings as well. It’s a versatile and widely understood term:
Ya probé una galleta, quiero otra.
(I already tried one cookie, I want another one.)
¿Dónde están tus otros amigos?
(Where are your other friends?)
2. El/La de más
In some regions, an informal way to express “other” is by using the phrase el/la de más. It’s a colloquial expression that can be used when referring to an additional person or thing:
¿Quién es la de más en la foto?
(Who is the other person in the photo?)
Necesito el de más para completar el juego.
(I need the other one to complete the game.)
Regional Variations
While the previous expressions are understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world, there are some regional variations worth mentioning. These variations might not be universally recognized, but they add a colorful touch to the language:
1. El otro lado / El otro rincón
In some Latin American countries, such as Mexico, you may come across the phrase el otro lado or el otro rincón to refer to somewhere else or a different place:
Vivía en un pueblo pequeño, pero ahora me mudé al otro lado.
(I used to live in a small town, but now I moved to the other side.)
2. Lo demás
In Spain, it’s common to use the phrase lo demás to refer to the rest or the other things. It can be used in various contexts:
Ya compré los libros, ahora necesito comprar lo demás.
(I already bought the books, now I need to buy the rest / the other things.)
Summing It Up
¡Muy bien! We’ve explored different ways to say “other” in Spanish, both formally and informally. From otro/a to el/la de más, you now have a range of expressions at your disposal. Remember to adapt your choice based on the situation and region you find yourself in, but feel free to experiment with these phrases.
As with any language, practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to incorporate these terms into your day-to-day conversations. The more you use them, the more natural they’ll become.
¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
