How to Say “Under the Table” in Spanish: A Complete Guide

Learning how to say “under the table” in Spanish is a common request for many language learners. This phrase is often used to describe an informal or illegal transaction carried out secretly or without official authorization. In this guide, we will explore various ways to express this concept in Spanish, including formal and informal alternatives. We will also provide tips, examples, and tackle some regional variations. Let’s dive in!

Formal Ways to Say “Under the Table” in Spanish

If you wish to express the concept of doing something unofficially or discreetly in a more formal context, there are several phrases you can use. Here are a few examples:

1. De forma encubierta: This phrase translates to “covertly” or “undercover.” It implies that an action or transaction is occurring in a concealed manner, behind the scenes, or without public knowledge.
2. De manera no oficial: This translates to “not officially” and indicates that something is happening without the proper authorization or adherence to established protocols. It suggests a departure from formal procedures or regulations.
3. De manera confidencial: This phrase means “confidentially” and suggests that a particular transaction or arrangement is being conducted privately, often implying a level of secrecy or discretion.

Remember to adapt these phrases according to the context in which you are using them. Explaining additional details surrounding the illicit nature of an activity might be necessary.

Informal Ways to Say “Under the Table” in Spanish

When it comes to informal situations or everyday conversations, you might encounter different regional variations for expressing the idea of “under the table” in Spanish. Here are some common phrases:

1. Por debajo del agua: This expression literally means “under the water” and is commonly used to describe something being done under the table. It implies an action occurring in secret, possibly referring to unofficial payments or transactions.
2. Por debajo de cuerda: This phrase translates to “under the rope” and conveys a similar sense of hidden or unofficial activities. It suggests actions carried out discreetly or surreptitiously, often bending the rules or operating outside of official channels.
3. En negro: Literally meaning “in black,” this phrase is widely used in Spain and some Latin American countries. It refers to unreported or undeclared work, often associated with tax evasion or informal employment arrangements.
4. En lo oscuro: This phrase translates to “in the dark” and is used metaphorically to indicate secretive or illicit behavior. It suggests activities conducted outside public awareness, hinting at the under-the-table concept.

Remember that these informal alternatives might not be suitable for all contexts. They are more common in colloquial speech and should be used cautiously in formal or professional settings.

Regional Variations

While the phrases mentioned above can generally be understood across different Spanish-speaking regions, there might be slight variations or additional terms used in certain countries or specific contexts. Here are a few notable examples:

Mexico

In Mexico, the phrase “debaJo del agua” is commonly used, which corresponds to “por debajo del agua” mentioned earlier. Additionally, you might come across the term “en chueco” meaning “crookedly” or referring to actions done in an irregular or dishonest way.

Argentina

In Argentina, people use the term “en negro” extensively, as mentioned earlier. However, another popular expression is “en B” (pronounced “en beh”), referring to off-the-books or unrecorded activities. This terminology originated from the use of “B” to designate unofficial financial transactions.

Colombia

In Colombia, a common phrase used for “under the table” is “por izquierda,” which translates to “by the left.” This term suggests clandestine actions or dealing with things outside of official channels. Another regional variation includes the term “enmarranado,” indicating actions done in a tangled or murky way.

TIP: When encountering regional variations, it’s essential to consider the context and audience. If unsure, it’s always wise to opt for phrases that have broader comprehension among Spanish speakers.

Examples

Let’s now see how these phrases are used in sentences to clearly understand their meaning:

• Los pagos extras se hacían por debajo del agua para evitar impuestos. (The extra payments were made under the table to avoid taxes.)
• El informante operaba de manera encubierta dentro de la organización delictiva. (The informant operated covertly within the criminal organization.)
• El empleado aceptó el dinero en negro para no tener que declararlo. (The employee accepted the money under the table to avoid declaring it.)
• El proyecto se llevó a cabo de manera confidencial debido a su naturaleza sensible. (The project was carried out confidentially due to its sensitive nature.)

Final Thoughts

Learning how to effectively express the concept of “under the table” in Spanish is valuable for both formal and informal communication. Remember to adapt your choice of phrases based on the level of formality required in a given context. Be mindful of regional variations and always consider the audience you are addressing. With these tips, examples, and a warm attitude towards learning, you’ll be able to navigate conversations about such matters with confidence.