Buenos días! If you’re looking to expand your Spanish conversational skills, learning how to ask someone “What do you want to do?” is a great place to start. By expressing interest in someone’s preferences, you can initiate engaging discussions and establish better connections. In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal approaches to asking this question in Spanish, providing you with numerous tips and examples to master the different nuances.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Ask “What Do You Want to Do?”
When addressing someone formally, such as in a professional setting or when speaking to someone older or of higher social status, you should use the formal “usted” form. Here are a few phrases you can use:
1. ¿Qué desea hacer? (keh deh-sah ah-ser) – What do you wish to do?
2. ¿En qué puedo ayudarle? (en keh pee-eh-do ah-yoo-dar-leh) – How may I assist you?
These formal expressions politely convey your interest in the other person’s preferences and show respect. While these phrases can be used in various Spanish-speaking countries, it’s important to note that there may be slight regional variations in vocabulary or pronunciation.
Informal Ways to Ask “What Do You Want to Do?”
When speaking with friends, peers, or family members in a more casual setting, you’ll want to use different expressions. In these cases, the informal “tú” form is appropriate. Here are a few examples:
1. ¿Qué quieres hacer? (keh kyeh-res ah-ser) – What do you want to do?
2. ¿Qué te gustaría hacer? (keh teh goos-tah-ree-ah ah-ser) – What would you like to do?
Using these informal expressions allows you to create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere when discussing potential activities. Remember to adjust your language based on the familiarity and comfort level of your conversation partner.
Examples and Tips
Now, let’s take a look at some practical examples and additional tips to enhance your understanding of how to use these phrases in different contexts:
1. Planning an outing with a friend:
Friend: “Hola, ¿qué quieres hacer este fin de semana?” (Hi, what do you want to do this weekend?)
You: “Podemos ir al cine o dar un paseo por el parque” (We can go to the movies or take a walk in the park).
Tip: When suggesting activities, it’s customary to offer a few options to make the decision-making process easier.
2. Asking your boss for input:
You: “Buenos días, ¿en qué puedo ayudarle hoy?” (Good morning, how may I assist you today?)
Boss: “Necesito que revises este informe” (I need you to review this report).
Tip: In a formal setting, it’s essential to be attentive and prepared to fulfill the requests or inquiries of your superiors.
3. Discussing leisure activities with a new acquaintance:
Acquaintance: “¿Qué te gustaría hacer para divertirnos?” (What would you like to do to have fun?)
You: “Podemos probar un nuevo restaurante o visitar un museo” (We can try a new restaurant or visit a museum).
Tip: When getting to know someone new, suggesting activities that cater to their interests can help foster a stronger bond.
Conclusion
¡Muy bien! Now you have a wide range of phrases to use when asking someone “What do you want to do?” in Spanish. Remember to adapt your language depending on the formality of the situation. Whether you’re using the formal “usted” or the informal “tú” form, expressing interest in the preferences of others demonstrates kindness and consideration. So go out there and engage in meaningful conversations, creating shared experiences en español!
