Welcome! Learning how to ask someone to repeat themselves is an essential skill when communicating in any language. In Spanish, there are various ways to express this request, depending on the level of formality and the regional variations within the language. In this guide, I’ll provide you with multiple ways to say “please repeat” in Spanish, offering tips, examples, and insights for both formal and informal situations.
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Formal Ways to Say “Please Repeat” in Spanish
When addressing someone in a formal setting, such as a professional or someone you don’t know well, it’s crucial to use the appropriate level of politeness. Here are some expressions you can use:
1. ¿Puede repetir, por favor?
This phrase, translating to “Can you repeat, please?”, is a polite and commonly used way to ask for repetition. It is suitable in formal situations and shows respect towards the person you are speaking to. Remember to use this phrase when speaking with older generations, superiors, or people you don’t know well.
Example: A conversation during a business meeting:
Speaker 1: Señor Ramírez, ¿podría explicarnos nuevamente los detalles del informe? (Mr. Ramírez, could you explain the report details again?)
Speaker 2: ¡Por supuesto! ¿Puede repetir, por favor? (Of course! Can you repeat, please?)
2. ¿Podría repetir eso, por favor?
If you want to convey an even higher level of formality, you can use this phrase that translates to “Could you repeat that, please?”. The inclusion of “eso” (that) adds more precision and respect to your request.
Example: An exchange during a conference:
Speaker 1: La importancia de la sostenibilidad en el desarrollo económico es indiscutible. (The importance of sustainability in economic development is undeniable.)
Speaker 2: Disculpe, señora, ¿podría repetir eso, por favor? (Excuse me, ma’am, could you repeat that, please?)
Informal Ways to Say “Please Repeat” in Spanish
When communicating with friends, family, or in casual settings, you can use less formal expressions to ask for repetition. Here are a few common phrases:
1. ¿Puedes repetir, por favor?
This phrase is a simple and friendly way to ask someone close to you, such as a friend, to repeat what they said. The use of “puedes” (can you) and “por favor” (please) maintains a polite tone while still being informal.
Example: A casual conversation with a friend:
Friend 1: Anoche fuimos al concierto de Juanes, ¡fue increíble! (Last night we went to Juanes’ concert, it was amazing!)
Friend 2: ¿Puedes repetir eso, por favor? No te escuché bien con todo el ruido. (Can you repeat that, please? I couldn’t hear you well with all the noise.)
2. Oye, ¿me lo puedes repetir?
Using the colloquial “Oye” (Hey) is another informal way to ask someone to repeat what they said. Adding “me lo puedes” before “repetir” emphasizes that you want them to repeat it specifically to you.
Example: A conversation among classmates:
Classmate 1: Creo que la tarea era hacer el ejercicio impares. (I think the homework was to do the odd exercises.)
Classmate 2: Disculpa, ¿me lo puedes repetir? No lo anoté. (Sorry, can you repeat that to me? I didn’t write it down.)
Additional Tips and Considerations
Regardless of the level of formality, keep in mind these valuable tips when asking for repetition:
1. Use body language and gestures
If you’re struggling to understand someone, don’t hesitate to use hand gestures or facial expressions to indicate that you need clarification. People are often willing to help and will understand your request for repetition.
2. Be patient and polite
Politeness goes a long way when asking someone to repeat themselves. Using “please” (por favor) and “thank you” (gracias) shows your respect and appreciation for their effort to make themselves understood.
3. Pay attention to regional variations
Spanish is spoken across a wide range of countries, and regional variations exist. While the phrases mentioned here are widely understood and used throughout the Spanish-speaking world, you may encounter local variations or slang. It’s always beneficial to learn specific expressions of the region or country you are in or interacting with.
With these formal and informal ways to say “please repeat” in Spanish, you are now equipped to navigate various situations with ease. Remember to adapt your choice of phrase based on the level of formality and the people you are interacting with. Happy learning and effective communication in Spanish!
