Learning how to inquire about someone’s activities in Spanish is essential for effective communication. Whether you want to ask a friend, family member, colleague, or even a stranger, we’ll explore the different ways to express “What are you doing?” in both formal and informal settings. Additionally, we’ll provide various tips, examples, and regional variations so you can confidently engage with Spanish speakers. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Ask “What Are You Doing?”
When speaking in formal situations or addressing someone with respect, such as your boss, a client, or an elder, you’ll want to choose polite phrases. Here are some formal ways to ask “What are you doing?” in Spanish:
1. ¿Qué está haciendo?
Use this question when addressing a single person in a formal environment. The verb “está” comes from the verb “estar” (to be) in its third person singular form. It emphasizes respect and politeness.
Example: Disculpe, señorita, ¿qué está haciendo en este momento? (Excuse me, miss, what are you doing at the moment?)
2. ¿En qué anda trabajando?
Use this phrase when inquiring specifically about someone’s work or occupation. The verb “andar” in this context means “to be engaged in” or “to be working on.”
Example: Señor, ¿en qué anda trabajando actualmente? (Sir, what are you working on currently?)
3. ¿A qué se dedica en estos días?
This question implies a more extended time frame, asking what the person has been doing lately. “A qué se dedica” literally means “What do you dedicate yourself to?”
Example: Estimado cliente, ¿a qué se dedica en estos días? (Dear customer, what have you been doing lately?)
Informal Ways to Ask “What Are You Doing?”
When speaking with friends, family, or in informal settings, you can use more casual expressions. Here are some examples of how to ask “What are you doing?” informally in Spanish:
1. ¿Qué haces?
This direct question is the standard way to ask “What are you doing?” in informal situations. Use it with friends, peers, or anyone you’re familiar with.
Example: ¡Hola! ¿Qué haces este fin de semana? (Hi! What are you doing this weekend?)
2. ¿En qué estás metido/a?
This informal phrase is more colloquial and is used to ask about someone’s current activities, engagements, or interests. “Estar metido/a” implies an involvement in something.
Example: Oye, amigo, ¿en qué estás metido últimamente? (Hey, buddy, what have you been up to lately?)
3. ¿Qué estás haciendo en este momento?
If you want to know what someone is doing at that very moment, this question is a good choice. It’s straightforward and direct.
Example: ¿Eh, qué estás haciendo en este momento? (Hey, what are you doing right now?)
Tips and Regional Variations
Here are some additional tips and regional variations to consider when using the phrases above:
1. Consider your relationship:
The choice between formal and informal depends on the level of familiarity and respect in your relationship with the person you’re addressing. Always be mindful of the context and adjust accordingly.
2. Regional variations:
Spanish is spoken in many countries, and you might encounter regional differences in vocabulary and phrases. However, the formal and informal expressions mentioned above are generally understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world.
Remember, politeness and courtesy play an essential role in Spanish culture, so using formal expressions when appropriate will generally be appreciated. However, if you develop closer relationships or interact frequently with Spanish speakers, transitioning to informal language might be more natural.
Practice these phrases, pay attention to the context, and your ability to communicate effectively in Spanish will continue to improve. Happy conversations!
