Learning how to ask “What did you just say?” in Spanish is essential for effective communication. Whether you’re engaged in a conversation with a friend, family member, or colleague, this phrase allows you to clarify any misunderstandings or request repetition. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express this question, ensuring you can confidently navigate various social settings. Additionally, we’ll provide useful tips, examples, and highlight any regional variations when relevant.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
When engaging in formal situations such as business meetings, interviews, or interactions with elderly individuals, it’s important to maintain a respectful tone. Here are a few formal ways to ask “What did you just say?” in Spanish:
1. ¿Puede repetir lo que acaba de decir, por favor?
This phrase translates to “Can you repeat what you just said, please?” It is a very polite and respectful way to request clarification. By using “puede” (can) and “por favor” (please), you exhibit manners and consideration towards the speaker.
Example:
Interviewer: “Sus habilidades profesionales son impresionantes. ¿Ha trabajado en proyectos similares antes?”
You: “¿Puede repetir lo que acaba de decir, por favor?”
Translation:
Interviewer: “Your professional skills are impressive. Have you worked on similar projects before?”
You: “Can you repeat what you just said, please?”
2. Disculpe, ¿podría repetir eso?
This phrase, meaning “Excuse me, could you repeat that?” is another polite way to seek clarification in formal settings. Using “disculpe” (excuse me) and “podría” (could you) adds a touch of formality to your request.
Example:
Colleague: “El informe sobre el último proyecto está listo. ¿Le gustaría revisarlo ahora?”
You: “Disculpe, ¿podría repetir eso?”
Translation:
Colleague: “The report on the latest project is ready. Would you like to review it now?”
You: “Excuse me, could you repeat that?”
Informal Expressions:
In casual settings, with friends, peers, or people of the same age group, you can use less formal language to ask “What did you just say?” Below, we present some informal expressions:
1. ¿Qué dijiste?
This phrase is a straightforward way to ask “What did you say?” in Spanish. It is commonly used among friends or in casual conversations.
Example:
Friend: “Vamos a la playa mañana, ¿te parece?”
You: “¿Qué dijiste?”
Translation:
Friend: “We’re going to the beach tomorrow, does that sound good to you?”
You: “What did you say?”
2. Oye, ¿qué fue lo que dijiste?
This expression translates to “Hey, what was it you said?” It is a slightly more casual and colloquial way to ask for repetition.
Example:
Sibling: “Me encontré con Juan en el centro comercial. ¿Sabes lo que hizo?”
You: “Oye, ¿qué fue lo que dijiste?”
Translation:
Sibling: “I ran into Juan at the mall. Do you know what he did?”
You: “Hey, what was it you said?”
Tips and Insights:
- Non-verbal cues: If you didn’t catch what someone said, it’s a good idea to use facial expressions or gestures to indicate confusion or request clarification. This can help the speaker understand that you need them to repeat or explain their statement.
- Pronunciation: Pay attention to proper pronunciation, especially when using formal expressions. A clear and respectful tone can enhance your request for repetition.
- Active listening: When asking someone to repeat what they said, it’s important to actively listen and focus on their response. This shows that you value their words and are genuinely interested in understanding.
- Paraphrasing: If you still struggle to understand even after requesting repetition, try to paraphrase or repeat what you think the speaker said. This allows them to confirm or clarify their statement further.
Remember, regional variations exist in any language, including Spanish. However, the phrases provided in this guide are widely understood and applicable across different Spanish-speaking regions. It is always beneficial to embrace regional slang or variations if you are in a specific area for an extended period, as it can help you blend in and connect with the locals.
Now that you have familiarized yourself with both formal and informal ways to ask “What did you just say?” in Spanish, you can confidently navigate a variety of social situations. Remember to practice these phrases regularly to become more comfortable using them in real-life conversations. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
