When learning Spanish, it’s essential to grasp the various ways to express the word “those” so that you can effectively communicate in different situations. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “those” in Spanish, providing tips, examples, and even regional variations where necessary. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Those”
Formal language is generally used in professional settings, formal conversations, or when addressing someone with higher social status. Here are the primary formal expressions for “those” in Spanish:
- Esos – In Spanish, “esos” is the masculine plural form of “those.” It is used to refer to masculine nouns or a mixed group of masculine and feminine nouns.
Example: Esos libros son muy interesantes. (Those books are very interesting.)
Esas – Similarly, “esas” is the feminine plural form of “those.” Use it when referring to feminine nouns.
Example: Esas sillas son cómodas. (Those chairs are comfortable.)
Aquellos – “Aquellos” is the masculine plural form of “that” and can also be used to mean “those.” It implies a greater distance from the speaker and the listener.
Example: Aquellos carros son muy caros. (Those cars are very expensive.)
Aquellas – The feminine plural form of “aquellos.” Use it when referring to feminine nouns.
Example: Aquellas flores son hermosas. (Those flowers are beautiful.)
Informal Ways to Say “Those”
Informal language is colloquial and used among friends, family, or in casual situations. Here are some common informal expressions for “those” in Spanish:
- Esos/Esas – Just like in formal language, “esos/esas” can also be used informally to mean “those.”
Example: Esos zapatos están de moda. (Those shoes are trendy.)
Esos(s)/Esas(s) allí – Including the word “allí” (there) with “esos” or “esas” adds emphasis and points directly to the objects or people being referred to.
Example: Esos allí(s) son mis amigos. (Those over there are my friends.)
Esos/Esos-as de ahí – Similarly, using “de ahí” (from there) adds a stronger emphasis, indicating things or people that are even further away.
Example: Esos-as de ahí no los conozco. (I don’t know those (ones) from there.)
Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to help you understand and use these expressions effectively:
- Remember that in Spanish, adjectives, articles, and pronouns must match the gender and number of the noun they refer to.
- Using gestures or pointing while saying “esos” or “esas” can help avoid confusion, especially in informal settings.
- In some regions, particularly in Latin America, “esos” and “esas” can be shortened to “esos(as)” or “esos(as) ahí” in informal speech.
Example:
Conversation: En el parque hay unos perros muy lindos. (In the park, there are very cute dogs.)
Reply: ¿Dónde están esos ahí? (Where are those (ones) over there?)
Reply: ¿Cómo esos de ahí? (How about those (ones) from there?)
Remember, becoming fluent in any language takes practice, so don’t be afraid to make mistakes and keep improving your skills by engaging with native Spanish speakers or practicing with language resources.
¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
