¿a qué esperas?
¿a qué esperas? Is the Spanish way to say "what are you waiting for?"
This phrase is a question used to encourage someone to take action immediately.
Which one should you use?
¿Qué espera para actuar? translates to 'What are you waiting for to act?'
Did you know?
- The word esperar is unique because it means both 'to wait' and 'to hope', meaning the phrase can subtly imply 'what are you hoping for?' depending on the context.
- If you use the formal version ¿Qué espera? to a friend, it might sound like you are suddenly treating them with extreme distance or suspicion. The change from the informal esperas to the formal espera can signal a shift from closeness to cold formality.
- Depending on your intonation, ¿A qué esperas? can sound less like a nudge to hurry and more like a playful dare to see if the person is brave enough to act.
Example conversation
Lucía encourages Daniel to apply for a new job.
- LucíaEl puesto es perfecto para ti, Daniel.The position is perfect for you, Daniel.
- DanielNo sé si soy el mejor candidato.I don't know if I am the best candidate.
- LucíaEres el mejor, ¿a qué esperas?You are the best, what are you waiting for?
- DanielTienes razón, enviaré mi currículum ahora.You are right, I will send my resume now.
