Learning how to express the question “What are those?” in Spanish is a valuable skill that can help you navigate conversations and understand your surroundings. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways of asking this question, providing tips and examples along the way. While regional variations exist, we’ll primarily focus on standard Spanish to ensure broader understanding.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways
Formal expressions are commonly used in professional or formal situations. When asking “What are those?” formally in Spanish, you may consider using the following options:
1. ¿Qué son esos?
This straightforward and polite question is suitable for various formal contexts. Use it when speaking to someone you are not familiar with, or in professional environments.
Example:
– Excuse me, sir. ¿Qué son esos en la vitrina?
– Disculpe, señor. ¿Qué son esos en la vitrina?
2. ¿Cuáles son esos?
This alternative option maintains formality while emphasizing the specific items you are referring to. It’s ideal when pointing to a specific group of objects.
Example:
– ¿Cuáles son esos en el escaparate de la tienda de antigüedades?
– Which ones are those in the antique store window?
3. ¿Qué es eso?
If the objects you are referring to are singular or uncountable, the singular form of “what” should be used. This version works well in formal settings.
Example:
– Disculpe, señorita. ¿Qué es eso que brilla en el mostrador?
– Excuse me, miss. What is that shining on the display counter?
Informal Ways
Informal expressions are commonly used in casual settings among friends, family, or when addressing people you are familiar with. Here are some informal phrases to ask “What are those?” in Spanish:
1. ¿Qué son ésos?
When engaging in conversations with friends or in informal contexts, you may use this phrase. The addition of the accent on “ésos” adds a friendly tone.
Example:
– Oye, ¿qué son ésos que tienes en la mano?
– Hey, what are those you have in your hand?
2. ¿Qué son esos bichos?
This phrase, which includes the word “bichos” (meaning bugs or creatures), has a slightly colloquial touch. It’s commonly used when referring to unidentified or peculiar objects.
Example:
– Mira, ¿qué son esos bichos en el jardín?
– Look, what are those creatures in the garden?
3. ¿Qué diantres son esos?
This playful phrase adds a touch of exaggeration and surprise by using the word “diantres” (meaning heck, darn, or the like). It’s perfect for informal conversations.
Example:
– ¡Ajá! ¿Qué diantres son esos que tienes en la caja?
– Aha! What the heck are those you have in the box?
Tips for Understanding and Using the Expressions
Here are some tips to enhance your understanding and usage of these expressions when asking “What are those?” in Spanish:
- Pay attention to context: The appropriateness of these expressions heavily depends on the context and relationship with the person you are addressing. Gauge the situation and choose accordingly.
- Intonation and body language: When using these phrases, remember that intonation and body language play a vital role in conveying your meaning. Use appropriate gestures or facial expressions to complement your question.
- Regional variations: While this guide focuses on standard Spanish, it’s worth noting that regional variations exist. Some phrases may be more commonly used in specific countries or regions. Embrace these variations as you encounter them, as they add richness to the language.
- Practice and exposure: The more you practice asking “What are those?” in Spanish, the better you’ll become. Engage in conversations with native speakers, watch Spanish movies or TV shows, and listen to Spanish music to expose yourself to the language.
By following these tips and incorporating expressions from this guide into your Spanish conversations, you’ll be better equipped to understand and ask “What are those?” in both formal and informal contexts.
Remember, language learning is a journey, and making mistakes along the way is natural. Embrace the process, keep an open mind, and enjoy the richness of the Spanish language as you explore new expressions and phrases.
