Por favor, espere a un intérprete
In Spanish, "please hold for an interpreter" is said as Por favor, espere a un intérprete.
This phrase is used in professional telephonic contexts, such as customer service or medical dispatch, to request that a caller remain on the line.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Por favor (please), espere (wait/hold), a (the personal preposition used before people) and un intérprete (an interpreter).
Which one should you use?
While Por favor, espere a un intérprete is a direct way to request the hold, you may also hear Manténgase en la línea para un intérprete, which literally means "Stay on the line for an interpreter".
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb espere can be changed to esperen if the caller is addressing more than one person (plural).
Did you know?
- In some Latin American countries, the verb esperar is used not just for waiting on a phone, but also to express 'hoping' for something. Depending on the context and tone, the word can shift from a command to a sentiment of hope.
- While intérprete is used here for spoken language, the word traductor is reserved for people who translate written text. Using these interchangeably is a common mistake for learners, but professional services strictly distinguish between the two.
- The word intérprete comes from the Latin interpres, which originally referred to a negotiator or a go-between in a bargain rather than just a language specialist.
Examples in context
- Por favor, espere en línea para un intérprete. Su llamada será atendida en breve.Please hold the line for an interpreter. Your call will be attended to shortly.
- Le ruego que espere en línea mientras le conseguimos un intérprete. Agradecemos su paciencia.I kindly ask you to hold the line while we get you an interpreter. We appreciate your patience.
- Por favor, espera en línea hasta que conectemos con un intérprete. No te preocupes, te atenderemos en breve.Please hold the line until we connect you with an interpreter. Don't worry, we will assist you shortly.
- Necesito que aguantes un momento en línea para hablar con un intérprete. Te pido disculpas por la espera.I need you to hold on for a moment on the line to speak with an interpreter. I apologize for the wait.
- No cuelgue, por favor, espere a un intérprete.Don't hang up, please hold for an interpreter.
Example conversation
Alejandro is a receptionist at a clinic and Elena is a patient who needs assistance.
- AlejandroHola, ¿en qué puedo ayudarle hoy?Hello, how can I help you today?
- ElenaNo hablo mucho español, necesito ayuda.I don't speak much Spanish, I need help.
- AlejandroEntiendo. Por favor, espere a un intérprete.I understand. Please hold for an interpreter.
- ElenaMuchas gracias, Alejandro.Thank you very much, Alejandro.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, favor, intérprete, por, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
