How to Say “What Did You Say?” in Spanish

Learning how to ask someone to repeat themselves in a different language is a crucial part of effective communication. In Spanish, there are various ways to express the phrase “What did you say?” depending on the level of formality and the region. In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways to ask for clarification in Spanish, ensuring you can navigate different contexts confidently. Let’s explore some useful phrases, tips, and examples below:

Formal Ways to Say “What Did You Say?”

When addressing someone in a formal setting, such as professional or business environments, it is important to use appropriate language and etiquette. Here are some formal ways to ask for clarification:

1. ¿Podría repetir, por favor? (Could you repeat, please?): This polite phrase is a safe and common way to ask someone to repeat what they said.
2. Le ruego que repita lo que ha dicho. (I beg you to repeat what you said.): This sentence displays a higher level of formality and respect. It is suitable for more serious situations or when speaking to a person of authority.

Informal Ways to Say “What Did You Say?”

In casual or friendly settings, such as conversations with friends or family, you can use more relaxed phrases to ask for repetition:

1. ¿Qué dijiste? (What did you say?): This is a straightforward and commonly used phrase among friends or in informal situations.
2. ¿Me repites eso? (Can you repeat that for me?): This informal and friendly expression is perfect when you want someone to repeat what they said, such as during a casual conversation.

Common Variations in Different Spanish-Speaking Regions

Spanish is spoken across a multitude of countries, each with its own linguistic variations. While the above phrases are widely understood, it’s worth noting some regional differences:

Note: The following variations might not be essential for general communication but can be useful for those interested in Spanish dialects and regional nuances.

Variations in Spain:

In Spain, it is common to use the word “decir” (to say) in the structures for asking what someone said:

• ¿Qué has dicho? (What did you say?): This phrase is frequently used in Spain to ask for repetition.
• ¿Podrías repetirlo, por favor? (Could you repeat it, please?): This formal way of asking for clarification is often preferred in Spain.

Variations in Latin America:

In Latin America, the following variations are commonly used to ask what someone said:

• ¿Qué dijiste?/¿Qué dijistes? (What did you say?): These variations are commonly used throughout Latin America in informal conversations.
• ¿Me puedes repetir eso?/¿Me puedes repetir eso, por favor? (Can you repeat that for me?): This variation is frequently used in informal settings to ask for repetition.

Remember, these regional differences are not essential to communicate effectively. The phrases mentioned earlier will serve you well in any Spanish-speaking country.

Tips for Effective Communication

When asking someone to repeat themselves, it’s important to consider a few additional tips for effective communication:

1. Politeness: Always remember to use polite expressions, such as “por favor” (please) and “gracias” (thank you), when asking someone to repeat what they said.
2. Gestures: If you are having difficulty understanding, consider using gestures, pointing to your ear, or indicating that you didn’t hear clearly. Non-verbal cues can enhance understanding.
3. Active Listening: Pay close attention to the speaker and maintain eye contact, which demonstrates your interest. This also helps in overcoming language barriers and understanding more clearly.
4. Cultural Awareness: Recognize and respect different cultural norms regarding personal space, body language, and eye contact. Being culturally sensitive will foster better communication.

Now that you have learned different ways to ask “What did you say?” in Spanish, along with regional variations and helpful tips, you can confidently communicate in various contexts. Practice these phrases regularly, and your Spanish-speaking abilities will continue to improve!

¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)