When learning a new language, it’s essential to have a grasp of common words such as “that” in order to effectively communicate. In Spanish, there are various ways to express “that” depending on the formality and context of the conversation. In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “that” in Spanish, providing numerous tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “That” in Spanish
Usage of formal language is often required in professional settings or when speaking to someone you first meet. Here are a few formal ways to say “that” in Spanish:
- Eso: This is the most common and versatile translation for “that” in a formal context. For example, you could say “Eso es impresionante” (That is impressive) or “Eso no es cierto” (That is not true).
- Aquello: Though less commonly used, “aquello” can also mean “that” in a formal situation. For instance, you might say “Aquello me sorprende” (That surprises me) or “Lo siento por aquello” (I’m sorry for that).
Informal Ways to Say “That” in Spanish
When conversing with friends, family, or in casual situations, a more relaxed language is often used. Here are a few informal ways to say “that” in Spanish:
- Eso: Similar to its formal usage, “eso” is also commonly used informally. For example, you could say “Eso está genial” (That’s awesome) or “Eso no me gusta” (I don’t like that).
- Ese: Used as an informal variation of “eso,” “ese” is often used in Latin American countries. For instance, you might say “Ese carro es genial” (That car is awesome) or “¡No me hagas ese chiste!” (Don’t make that joke to me!).
Tips for Using “That” in Spanish
Now that we have explored formal and informal ways to say “that” in Spanish, here are some useful tips to enhance your understanding:
Tip 1: “Eso” is the most versatile word for “that” in Spanish and can be used in various contexts.
Tip 2: When you want to emphasize “that” or refer to something specific, you can use “ese” or “aquello” in a formal context.
Tip 3: In informal situations, “ese” is commonly used in Latin American countries, while “eso” is more prevalent elsewhere.
Tip 4: Pay attention to the gender of the noun you are referring to. Use “ese” for masculine nouns and “esa” for feminine nouns in the singular form. In the plural form, use “esos” for masculine nouns and “esas” for feminine nouns.
Tip 5: Listen to native Spanish speakers and observe their usage of “that” in different contexts to further deepen your understanding.
Examples of “That” in Spanish
Let’s now look at some examples to illustrate how to use “that” in different sentences:
- Formal Examples:
- Eso: Eso es muy interesante. (That is very interesting.)
- Aquello: Lo siento por aquello. (I’m sorry for that.)
- Informal Examples:
- Eso: Eso no me gusta nada. (I don’t like that at all.)
- Ese: ¡No quiero eso! (I don’t want that!)
Remember, context plays an important role in determining which translation of “that” is most appropriate. Fluency in any language is achieved through practice, so don’t hesitate to incorporate these examples and tips into your language learning routine.
Learning how to say “that” in Spanish is a fundamental step towards speaking the language fluently. By understanding the differences in formal and informal contexts, as well as regional variations, you will be well-equipped to communicate effectively in Spanish. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be confidently incorporating “that” into your daily conversations!
