Hola amigos! Are you curious to know how to ask “Who said that?” in Spanish? Whether you’re engaging in a casual conversation or discussing a formal matter, this guide will provide you with the essential phrases, tips, and examples you need. We’ll cover both the formal and informal ways to ask this question, focusing on universal usage rather than regional variations. So, let’s dive right into it!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Who Said That?”
When you find yourself in a formal setting or addressing someone with respect, use the following phrases:
1. ¿Quién dijo eso?
The most straightforward and universal way to ask “Who said that?” in formal Spanish is, ¿Quién dijo eso? This simple phrase is suitable for a wide range of situations and regions, making it a reliable choice when you need to seek the source of a statement or quote.
2. ¿Quién mencionó eso?
If you want to add a touch of formality to your inquiry, you can use the phrase ¿Quién mencionó eso?, which translates to “Who mentioned that?” This form is often used in professional settings or when addressing individuals with elevated status.
3. ¿De quién es esa afirmación?
Another way to ask “Who said that?” formally is by using the question, ¿De quién es esa afirmación? This phrase, which means “Whose statement is that?”, conveys a sense of respect while maintaining clarity in your query.
Informal Ways to Say “Who Said That?”
Now, let’s explore the informal ways to ask “Who said that?” in Spanish. These expressions are perfect for casual conversations among friends, colleagues, or in everyday situations:
1. ¿Quién dijo eso?
Yes, you read it correctly! The same phrase ¿Quién dijo eso? that we mentioned earlier can also be used in informal contexts. Spanish-speakers often use this expression interchangeably in both formal and casual settings, embracing linguistic flexibility.
2. ¿Quién lo dijo?
When you’re engaged in a lively conversation and wish to sound more colloquial, you can ask ¿Quién lo dijo?, meaning “Who said it?” This shortened version is widely used in spoken Spanish and adds an informal touch to your question.
3. ¿Quién ha dicho eso?
If you want to convey a sense of surprise or emphasize the recentness of the statement, you can use the phrase ¿Quién ha dicho eso?, which translates to “Who has said that?” This form is commonly heard in informal situations.
Tips and Examples
1. Use facial expressions and intonation:
When asking “Who said that?” in Spanish, rely on your facial expressions and intonation to enhance your message. By emphasizing certain words or raising your eyebrows, you can express surprise or curiosity. Remember, non-verbal communication greatly impacts how your question is perceived.
2. Practice active listening:
While someone may answer your question, it’s important to actively listen and confirm understanding. Repeat the answer back to the speaker, for example, “Entonces, María dijo eso” (So, María said that). This shows your engagement and also helps avoid misunderstandings.
3. Consider context:
Understanding the context in which a statement was made is crucial. When asking “Who said that?” in Spanish, consider providing additional information to help others decipher the specific reference you’re addressing. For instance, you can say, “En la reunión de ayer, alguien mencionó eso. ¿Quién fue?” (During yesterday’s meeting, someone mentioned that. Who was it?)
Pro Tip: When unsure about someone’s name, use the phrase “Alguien dijo eso”. It means “Someone said that.” This allows the conversation to continue without dwelling on the specific person who made the statement.
Here are a few more examples of how to inquire about the source of a statement in Spanish:
- ¿Quién dijo eso sobre el proyecto? (Who said that about the project?)
- ¿Quién mencionó eso durante el discurso? (Who mentioned that during the speech?)
- ¿De quién es esa afirmación tan audaz? (Whose bold statement is that?)
- ¿Quién lo dijo en primer lugar? (Who said it in the first place?)
Remember to adapt these phrases to your specific context and conversation style while keeping the warmth and respect intact. Practice using them regularly, and soon you’ll feel more confident in your Spanish communication skills!
¡Enhorabuena! Congratulations on expanding your Spanish phrase repertoire. Now you can confidently inquire about the source of statements with ease, whether you’re formal or informal. Keep exploring the beauty of the Spanish language, and soon you’ll become even more proficient. ¡Hasta luego!
