Learning how to ask “What is this called?” in Spanish can be extremely useful when you need to identify an object, item, or concept. Whether you want to use a formal or informal approach, this guide will provide you with the necessary phrases, tips, and examples to help you communicate effectively in various Spanish-speaking situations.
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Formal Ways to Ask “What is This Called?”
When you need to be polite or respectful, especially in professional or formal settings, it’s important to use formal language. Here are a few phrases you can use:
1. ¿Cómo se llama esto?
“Cómo” means “how,” “se llama” is the formal way to say “is called,” and “esto” means “this.” When asking someone you respect or addressing a larger group, this phrase is a suitable choice.
2. ¿Cómo se nombra esto?
“Cómo” means “how,” “se nombra” is the formal phrase for “is named,” and “esto” means “this.” This is another formal option you can use when you want to show respect or ask in a professional setting.
3. ¿Cuál es el nombre de esto?
“Cuál” means “what,” “es” means “is,” “el nombre” means “the name,” and “esto” means “this.” This phrase is suitable in more formal scenarios when you are seeking the appropriate name for something.
Informal Ways to Ask “What is This Called?”
In casual or informal situations, such as talking to friends, family members, or peers, you can use less formal language. Here are a few phrases you can use:
1. ¿Cómo se llama esto?
This phrase, similar to the formal one, is commonly used in both formal and informal settings. So, you can comfortably use it with friends and acquaintances as well.
2. ¿Cómo se dice esto?
“Cómo” means “how,” “se dice” means “is said,” and “esto” means “this.” This phrase is commonly used in informal situations when you want to know how to say or name something in Spanish.
3. ¿Cómo le dicen a esto?
“Cómo” means “how,” “le dicen” is the informal way to say “do they call,” and “a esto” means “to this.” This phrase is often used among friends when you want to know how something is commonly referred to.
Regional Variations
While the previously mentioned phrases are widely understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world, there might be regional differences in certain countries. Here are a few regional variations:
1. ¿Cómo se le dice a esto en México?
In Mexico, it is common to add the country name after the question to specify the region. “Cómo se le dice a esto” means “how is this called,” and “en México” means “in Mexico.”
2. ¿Cómo se conoce esto en Argentina?
In Argentina, instead of “cómo se llama,” people often use “cómo se conoce” to ask how something is known. “Esto” means “this,” and “en Argentina” means “in Argentina.”
Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to help you master the phrase “What is this called?” in Spanish:
1. Use gestures and visuals to enhance understanding
When asking for the name of something in Spanish, you can point directly at the object or use gestures to ensure clarity. Additionally, you can show pictures, or use your smartphone to display images or translations to facilitate communication.
2. Practice with various objects
To become more confident in asking for names in Spanish, practice with different objects. Start with everyday items and gradually move to more complex concepts or specific vocabulary related to your interests or profession. For example:
- ¿Cómo se llama esto? – What is this called?
- ¿Cómo se llama este libro? – What is this book called?
- ¿Cómo se llama esta flor? – What is this flower called?
- ¿Cómo se llama esta ciudad? – What is this city called?
3. Pay attention to gender and number
Remember that in Spanish, nouns have gender (masculine or feminine) and number (singular or plural). Adjust your question accordingly based on the object you want to name. For example:
- ¿Cómo se llama este coche? – What is this car called?
- ¿Cómo se llama esta casa? – What is this house called?
- ¿Cómo se llaman estos perros? – What are these dogs called?
- ¿Cómo se llaman estas ciudades? – What are these cities called?
4. Listen for the response and take notes
When someone provides you with the name of the object, make sure to listen carefully. Repeat the name if necessary to confirm your understanding, and consider taking notes so you can remember the vocabulary later.
5. Practice actively
To reinforce your learning, practice using these phrases actively in conversations with Spanish-speaking friends, language exchange partners, or tutors. The more you practice, the more natural it will become.
Remember, the key is to practice, be patient, and embrace any mistakes as learning opportunities. With time and dedication, you will confidently ask “What is this called?” in Spanish, no matter the situation.
