Becoming proficient in any language requires understanding how to communicate effectively in varying situations. Expressing the phrase “What do you want to do?” is a fundamental aspect of everyday conversation. In Spanish, there are different ways to convey this question, depending on the level of formality and regional nuances. This guide will explore both formal and informal ways to ask this question in Spanish, including tips, examples, and regional variations when necessary.
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Formal Ways to Say “What Do You Want to Do?” in Spanish
When addressing someone formally, it is important to use the appropriate language to convey respect and courtesy. Here are some phrases you can use:
1. ¿Qué te gustaría hacer? (keh te goos-tah-REE-ah ah-thehr)
This is a typical phrase to ask someone what they would like to do. It is polite and can be used in most formal situations. Here’s an example:
Example: Señor López, ¿qué le gustaría hacer hoy? (Sen-yor LO-pehth, keh le goos-tah-REE-ah ah-thehr oy)
Translation: Mr. López, what would you like to do today?
2. ¿Cuál es su deseo? (KWAHL es soo deh-SEH-oh)
This phrase translates to “What is your desire?” and is a formal way to ask someone what they want to do. It is a bit more formal and may sound slightly old-fashioned, so use it in appropriate contexts. Here’s an example:
Example: Señora García, ¿cuál es su deseo para esta tarde? (Sen-yora GAR-thee-ah, kwahl es soo deh-SEH-oh pah-rah es-tah TAR-deh)
Translation: Mrs. García, what is your desire for this afternoon?
Informal Ways to Say “What Do You Want to Do?” in Spanish
When talking to friends, family, or people you have a closer relationship with, you can use more casual language. Below are some informal phrases you can use:
1. ¿Qué quieres hacer? (keh kree-AYS ah-thehr)
This is the most common way to ask someone what they want to do in an informal setting. It can be used among friends, siblings, or when addressing someone younger than you. Here’s an example:
Example: Juan, ¿qué quieres hacer esta tarde? (Hwan, keh kree-AYS ah-thehr es-tah TAR-deh)
Translation: Juan, what do you want to do this afternoon?
2. ¿Cuál es tu plan? (KWAHL es too plan)
Asking “What’s your plan?” is a casual way to inquire about someone’s intentions or activities. It can be used between friends or in a casual setting. Here’s an example:
Example: Oye, ¿cuál es tu plan para este fin de semana? (O-yeh, kwahl es too plan pah-rah ES-teh feen deh se-mah-nah)
Translation: Hey, what’s your plan for this weekend?
Regional Variations
Spanish is spoken across various countries, and each region may have its unique expressions. While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood, it’s essential to consider regional variations. Below are a couple of examples:
1. ¿Qué te apetece hacer? (keh teh ah-PEH-theh-se ah-thehr)
This phrase, commonly used in Spain, asks someone what they feel like doing. It implies desires or preferences. Here’s an example:
Example: Carmen, ¿qué te apetece hacer hoy? (Kar-men, keh teh ah-PEH-theh-se ah-thehr oy)
Translation: Carmen, what do you feel like doing today?
2. ¿Qué te pinta para hoy? (keh teh PEEN-tah PAH-rah oy)
This phrase is commonly used in some Latin American countries, such as Mexico and Argentina. It asks someone what they feel like doing, emphasizing the current situation. Here’s an example:
Example: Pablo, ¿qué te pinta para hoy? (Pah-blo, keh teh PEEN-tah PAH-rah oy)
Translation: Pablo, what do you feel like doing today?
Tips for Using These Phrases
Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when using the aforementioned phrases:
1. Context Matters:
Ensure the phrases align with the level of formality or informality of the situation. Using the wrong form could come across as disrespectful or overly informal.
2. Pronunciation:
Practice the pronunciation of the phrases to ensure clear communication. Pay attention to stress on the appropriate syllables.
3. Nonverbal Cues:
Consider nonverbal cues, such as tone of voice and body language, to convey your intentions accurately. These cues can enhance the effectiveness of your question.
Conclusion
Asking “What do you want to do?” in Spanish can be expressed in various ways, depending on the level of formality and regional variations. This guide provided you with phrases for both formal and informal situations, as well as examples and regional variations from Spain and Latin America. Remember to consider context, pronunciation, and nonverbal cues to effectively communicate your question. Now, go forth and engage in exciting conversations in Spanish!
