What does it mean word for word?
The phrase ¿qué vas a hacer mañana? literally translates to "what are you going to do tomorrow?", utilizing the ir + a + infinitive structure to denote the near future.
Which one should you use?
While English speakers often say "what are you doing tomorrow?", the Spanish construction ¿qué vas a hacer mañana? is the more common way to ask about these intentions.
How does it change in a sentence?
The conjugation of the verb ir changes based on the subject and level of formality. The form ¿qué vas a hacer mañana? uses the informal singular tú conjugation (vas). To address a person politely or someone of higher status, use the third-person singular form va in the phrase ¿qué va a hacer mañana? If you are asking a group of people, use the plural form van in ¿qué van a hacer mañana?
Did you know?
- While the phrase asks about plans, using mañana in certain cultures can be a vague social signal that something might happen eventually, but not necessarily on that specific day.
- To specify 'tomorrow morning' specifically, speakers use the redundant-sounding phrase mañana por la mañana.
- The word mañana originally meant only 'tomorrow morning' in Old Spanish. Over time, its meaning expanded from just the early hours of the following day to encompass the entire day.
Examples in context
- Oye, ¿qué vas a hacer mañana? Podríamos ir al cine si quieres.Hey, what are you going to do tomorrow? We could go to the movies if you want.
- Cuéntame, ¿qué piensas hacer mañana? ¡Tal vez podamos ir de excursión juntos!Tell me, what are you thinking of doing tomorrow? Maybe we can go on a hike together!
- No tengo planes, ¿y tú?I don't have plans, and you?
Example conversation
Lucía calls Javier to check his availability for a trip.
- LucíaHola Javier, ¿qué vas a hacer mañana?Hello Javier, what are you doing tomorrow?
- JavierNo tengo planes todavía, ¿por qué?I don't have plans yet, why?
- LucíaQuiero invitarte a la playa.I want to invite you to the beach.
- Javier¡Me encanta la idea!I love the idea!
