When trying to communicate with native speakers, it’s essential to know how to ask “What are you doing?” in Mexican Spanish. In this guide, we will cover the formal and informal ways of expressing this question, while also exploring a few tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Ask “What Are You Doing?”
In formal settings or when speaking to someone of higher authority, it’s important to use proper etiquette. Here are a few phrases you can use to ask “What are you doing?” formally in Mexican Spanish:
- ¿Qué está haciendo? – This is the most straightforward and formal way to ask the question. Use this when speaking to someone you address with usted (the formal “you” form).
- ¿En qué anda? – Literally meaning “What are you up to?” or “What are you busy with?” this phrase is another polite way to ask someone about their current activities.
- ¿Qué actividad realiza actualmente? – This phrase translates to “What activity are you currently engaged in?” It’s a more elaborate way of inquiring about someone’s current actions.
Informal Ways to Ask “What Are You Doing?”
When talking to friends, family, or people of similar age and status, you can utilize more informal expressions. Here are some commonly used phrases for asking “What are you doing?” informally in Mexican Spanish:
- ¿Qué haces? – This is the basic and most frequently used way to ask “What are you doing?” in an informal manner. It’s the equivalent of saying “What are you up to?” in English.
- ¿Qué estás haciendo? – By adding “estás” (the informal “you” form) to the phrase, it becomes “What are you doing?”. It’s a bit more specific and can be used in casual situations.
- ¿En qué andas? – Similar to the formal expression, this phrase translates to “What are you up to?” or “What are you busy with?” It’s commonly used among friends and acquaintances.
Tips and Examples
Here are some tips and examples on how to use the phrases we mentioned above:
1. When asking someone informally:
Example: Hola Juan, ¿qué haces? – Hello Juan, what are you doing?
Example: ¿En qué andas, Ana? – What are you up to, Ana?
2. When talking to someone formally:
Example: Buenos días, señor García. ¿Qué actividad realiza actualmente? – Good morning, Mr. García. What activity are you currently engaged in?
Example: Disculpe, ¿en qué anda usted? – Excuse me, what are you busy with?
Remember that tone and context play an important role in selecting the appropriate phrase. Although Mexican Spanish generally prefers informal communication, it’s crucial to adjust your language based on the situation and relationship with the person you are speaking to.
Mexican Spanish includes various regional variations in vocabulary and accent. However, when it comes to asking “What are you doing?” the phrases we mentioned earlier are widely understood and used throughout Mexico. Nevertheless, be prepared for some minor differences in accent and word choices based on the specific region you are in.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to ask “What are you doing?” in Mexican Spanish, you are well-equipped to engage in conversations and connect with native speakers. Remember to select the appropriate level of formality based on the context and the person you are speaking to. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
