Guide on How to Say “Que Quiere Decir”: Formal and Informal Ways with Tips and Examples

When learning a language, understanding phrases and expressions is essential. One common phrase that often arises is “que quiere decir” which translates to “what does it mean” in English. Knowing how to ask this question formally or informally can greatly enhance your language skills. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different ways to say “que quiere decir” and provide numerous tips and examples to help you master this phrase.

Formal Expressions:

Formal expressions are suitable for professional settings, interactions with people older than you, or when addressing someone you want to show respect to. Here are some formal ways to ask “que quiere decir”:

1. ¿Cuál es su significado?

This expression directly translates to “what is its meaning?” and is commonly used in more formal contexts. It is a polite way to inquire about the meaning of something.

2. ¿Podría decirme qué significa?

If you want to make your request more polite, you can use this expression which means “could you tell me what it means?” Adding “podría” (could you) demonstrates your politeness and respect towards the person you are addressing.

3. ¿Me podría explicar el significado?

Another respectful way to ask for the meaning of something is by using this phrase, which translates to “could you explain the meaning to me?” It shows that you value the person’s knowledge and are genuinely interested in understanding their explanation.

Informal Expressions:

Informal expressions are used in casual conversations with friends, peers, or people you have a close relationship with. Here are some informal ways to ask “que quiere decir”:

1. ¿Qué significa?

This is the most common and straightforward way to ask “what does it mean?” in informal settings. It is widely used among friends and acquaintances.

2. O sea, ¿qué quiere decir?

Adding “o sea” at the beginning of the question serves as a filler phrase, similar to saying “I mean” in English. This informal expression translates to “I mean, what does it mean?” and is commonly used in casual conversations.

3. ¿Me explicas qué significa?

If you want to ask someone to explain the meaning of something in an informal way, you can use this phrase, which means “can you explain to me what it means?” It is a friendly and approachable way to seek clarification.

Tips for Using “Que Quiere Decir”:

1. Pay attention to the context:

Before asking what something means, try to grasp the context of the conversation or situation. Understanding the context can help you figure out the possible meanings without explicitly asking the question.

2. Be polite and respectful:

When using formal expressions, remember to show politeness by using phrases like “¿podría” or “¿me podría.” This demonstrates your respect for the other person’s knowledge and expertise.

3. Practice active listening:

When someone is explaining the meaning of something to you, make sure to actively listen and engage in the conversation. Asking follow-up questions or seeking clarification shows your genuine interest in understanding.

4. Expand your vocabulary:

Learning new words and their meanings regularly will help you in understanding phrases and expressions more easily. Try to expose yourself to a wide range of materials, such as books, articles, and movies, to expand your vocabulary.

Examples:

Formal Examples:

Example 1:

Person A: Buenas tardes, señor. ¿Cuál es el significado de esta palabra “desolado”?

Person B: Claro, con gusto. “Desolado” significa sentirse solo, triste y sin esperanza.

Example 2:

Person A: Disculpe, ¿podría decirme qué significa “efímero”?

Person B: ¡Por supuesto! “Efímero” se refiere a algo que dura poco tiempo o es temporal.

Informal Examples:

Example 1:

Person A: Oye, ¿qué significa “chido”?

Person B: Ah, “chido” es un modismo en México que significa algo genial o emocionante.

Example 2:

Person A: ¿Me explicas qué quiere decir “dataverse”?

Person B: Sí, claro. “Dataverse” es un término utilizado para describir una infraestructura de almacenamiento y gestión de datos.

By understanding the formal and informal ways to say “que quiere decir,” you will be better equipped to engage in meaningful conversations and expand your language skills. Remember to use the appropriate expression based on the context and relationship with the person you are addressing. Practice active listening and continuously enrich your vocabulary to further enhance your language proficiency. ¡Buena suerte!