Buenos días! Are you interested in learning how to say “this week” in Spanish? No hay problema! In this guide, we will explore the various ways to express “this week” in both formal and informal contexts, while highlighting some regional variations when applicable. So let’s dive right in and expand your Spanish vocabulary!
Table of Contents
1. “Esta semana” – The Most Common Usage
The most straightforward way to say “this week” in Spanish is “esta semana.” Whether you’re in a formal or informal setting, you’ll be safe using this phrase. Here are a few examples:
Example 1: Tengo una reunión importante esta semana. (I have an important meeting this week.)
Example 2: Vamos a ir al cine esta semana. (We are going to the movies this week.)
Keep in mind that “esta semana” is the standard form used across most Spanish-speaking countries. However, there are specific regional variations that you might encounter.
2. Regional Variations
While “esta semana” is universally understood, some regions might use alternative expressions. Let’s explore a few variations:
2.1 “En esta semana” – Common in Latin America
In some Latin American countries, it is common to add “en” before “esta semana,” resulting in “en esta semana.” This variation is widely used and understood, particularly in countries like Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia. Take a look at the examples below:
Example 3: Ocuparé esta oficina en esta semana. (I will use this office this week.)
Example 4: En esta semana, tenemos muchas tareas pendientes. (This week, we have a lot of pending tasks.)
Note that the addition of “en” in this context is optional, so you can still use “esta semana” without any issues.
2.2 “Esta semana que entra” – Common in Mexico
In Mexico, it is quite common to use the phrase “esta semana que entra” to refer to the upcoming week. This variation provides a more precise reference to the immediate future. Here are a couple of examples:
Example 5: Necesito terminar este proyecto esta semana que entra. (I need to finish this project next week.)
Example 6: Vengan a visitarme esta semana que entra. (Come visit me next week.)
In Mexican Spanish, using “esta semana que entra” instead of just “esta semana” can help differentiate between the current week and the one that follows.
3. Formal and Informal Usage
The phrases mentioned above can be used comfortably in both formal and informal contexts. However, in formal situations, you may prefer a more polished approach. Let’s take a look at some examples:
3.1 Formal Usage – “Durante esta semana” and “En el transcurso de la semana”
If you want to sound particularly formal, you can use expressions such as “durante esta semana” or “en el transcurso de la semana.” These phrases are more appropriate in professional or formal settings:
Example 7: Durante esta semana, espero recibir el informe solicitado. (During this week, I expect to receive the requested report.)
Example 8: En el transcurso de la semana, se evaluarán las propuestas presentadas. (Throughout the week, the submitted proposals will be evaluated.)
These formulations add a touch of formality and are commonly used in business or academic contexts.
3.2 Informal Usage – “Esta semanita” and “Esta semana de ahora”
On the other hand, in more casual conversations, you might come across people using expressions like “esta semanita” (this little week) or “esta semana de ahora” (this week right now). These informal variations carry a friendly tone and are commonly used among friends and close acquaintances:
Example 9: Esta semanita vamos a celebrar mi cumpleaños. (We’re going to celebrate my birthday this week.)
Example 10: No puedo quedar hoy, pero nos vemos esta semana de ahora. (I can’t meet today, but let’s see each other later this week.)
These informal expressions reflect the warmth and familiarity of relaxed conversations among friends or family.
4. Recap and Final Tips
To summarize our guide on how to say “this week” in Spanish:
- Use “esta semana” as the standard and universally understood phrase.
- In Latin American countries, you can also use “en esta semana” without any issues.
- In Mexico, consider using “esta semana que entra” for the upcoming week.
- For formal situations, opt for “durante esta semana” or “en el transcurso de la semana.”
- In informal settings, “esta semanita” or “esta semana de ahora” convey a friendly tone.
Remember, expanding your Spanish vocabulary is a gradual process, and practice makes perfect. The more you use these phrases, the more confident and proficient you will become!
¡Hasta la próxima! (Until next time!)
