Greetings! If you’re looking to express the sentiment of “they like” in Spanish, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey this phrase. Spanish, being a richly diverse language, offers various expressions and nuances depending on the region. While we’ll primarily focus on the standard Spanish, we’ll touch upon some regional variations as well. So, let’s dive in and start unraveling the different ways to express “they like” in Spanish!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “They Like” in Spanish
Formal expressions are commonly used in official or professional settings, when addressing strangers, or displaying respect towards others. Here are a few formal ways to say “they like” in Spanish:
1. Les gusta(n)
In formal Spanish, “they like” can be expressed as “les gusta(n).” This phrase is used when referring to a group of people liking something. The verb “gustar” literally means “to please,” and here, it is conjugated to match the third-person plural subject pronoun.
Example: A ellos les gusta el chocolate. (They like chocolate.)
2. A ellos les agrada(n)
Another formal way to say “they like” is by using “les agrada(n).” “Agradar” means “to please” or “to be pleasing to.” This phrase conveys a sense of appreciation or satisfaction.
Example: A ellos les agrada la música clásica. (They like classical music.)
Informal Ways to Say “They Like” in Spanish
When speaking among friends, family, or in casual situations, using formal expressions may seem too stiff or distant. Informal phrases help to create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere when talking about what “they like.” Here are some informal ways to express this:
1. Les gusta(n)
Just like in formal Spanish, “les gusta(n)” can also be used in informal situations. It is the most commonly used and versatile expression for expressing “they like” across contexts.
Example: Les gusta ir al cine. (They like going to the movies.)
2. Les mola(n)
In some Latin American countries, particularly in Spain, you may encounter the colloquial expression “les mola(n).” It is widely used, especially among younger generations, and has a similar meaning to “les gusta(n).”
Example: A ellos les mola el fútbol. (They like soccer.)
Regional Variations
Spanish is spoken across multiple countries and regions, each with its own dialects and peculiarities. Here, we explore a few regional variations of how to say “they like”:
1. Le(s) gusta(n)
In some countries, such as Argentina and Uruguay, you may occasionally hear “le(s) gusta(n)” instead of “les gusta(n).” The use of “le” instead of “les” for the indirect object pronoun is a regional variation.
Example: A ellos les gusta(n) los deportes. (They like sports.)
2. Le(s) encanta(n)
In Mexico and parts of Latin America, “le(s) encanta(n)” is a commonly used regional variation for expressing strong liking or love for something.
Example: A ellos les encanta(n) bailar. (They love dancing.)
Concluding Thoughts
With this guide, you now have a solid understanding of how to express “they like” in Spanish in both formal and informal contexts. Remember that phrases may vary based on regional preferences, so it’s beneficial to be aware of these variations. Whether you prefer the formal “les gusta(n)” or the informal “les mola(n),” you’ll be able to confidently express what “they like” in Spanish. Practice using these phrases in conversations, and you’ll gradually become more comfortable and fluent in expressing your thoughts. Keep up the good work, and enjoy your Spanish language learning journey!
