Gaining proficiency in a new language involves understanding the various ways to ask questions and communicate effectively. If you’re looking to express the question “Who are they?” in Spanish, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information. We’ll cover formal and informal ways to ask, include regional variations where necessary, offer helpful tips, and provide numerous examples to aid your learning process.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Who Are They” in Spanish
When using formal language, such as in professional or respectful settings, you can utilize the following expressions:
“¿Quiénes son ellos?”
This translation directly captures the meaning of “Who are they” while maintaining a formal undertone. Note that the word “ellos” refers to a group of males or a mixed group.
“¿Quiénes son ellas?”
If you are specifically referring to a group of females, you would use this alternative. The word “ellas” is used to refer to multiple women.
“¿Quiénes son?”
This short version still conveys the same meaning but omits the pronoun specifying their gender. It can be used in formal contexts when the gender of the group is irrelevant or already known.
2. Informal Ways to Say “Who Are They” in Spanish
When speaking casually or with friends, you can use the following expressions:
“¿Quiénes son ellos?”
The phrase remains the same as the formal version since the informal and formal uses overlap in this case.
“¿Quiénes son ellas?”
Similarly, this informal version is identical to the formal one and can be used to refer to a group of females.
“¿Quiénes son?”
Just like in the formal version, this shortened phrase can be used casually when the specific gender of the group is irrelevant or already known.
3. Tips for Using “Who Are They” in Spanish
3.1 Remembering the Verb “Ser”
In the expressions mentioned above, the verb “ser” is crucial for asking “Who are they?” in Spanish. “Ser” is primarily used to indicate permanent characteristics, identity, and professions. It’s essential to understand the foundational role of “ser” in these sentences.
3.2 Pay Attention to Pronouns
The pronouns “ellos” and “ellas” are used to refer to groups of people, with “ellos” indicating a group of males or a mixed group, while “ellas” exclusively refers to a group of females. Choosing the appropriate pronoun ensures clarity when using “who are they” in Spanish.
3.3 The Gender-Neutral Option
To maintain gender neutrality and when the specific gender of the group is unknown or irrelevant, you can simply ask “¿Quiénes son?” This allows for a more inclusive approach and prevents assumptions about someone’s gender.
4. Examples of “Who Are They” in Spanish
- Example 1:
Casual: Ana, José, y Juan llegaron al evento. ¿Quiénes son?
Formal: Los invitados del evento han llegado. ¿Quiénes son?
- Example 2:
Casual: ¿Quiénes son esas nuevas vecinas?
Formal: ¿Podría saber quiénes son las nuevas vecinas?
- Example 3:
Casual: Juan y María vinieron a visitarme. ¿Quiénes son ellos?
Formal: Recibí la visita de Juan y María. ¿Quiénes son?
By using the examples above, you can see how to apply these phrases in both formal and casual contexts, while considering gender specificity and neutrality. Practice will further enhance your understanding and fluency.
Remember, mastering a new language takes time, patience, and practice. Utilize these phrases in various scenarios, engage in conversations, and immerse yourself in the Spanish language to improve your skills. Have fun acquiring this beautiful language and enjoy the journey of discovery!
