quieres algo
/kjeɾes alɡo/from spelling rules
In Spanish, "you want something" is said as quieres algo.
This phrase is used to ask if someone desires a particular object or service. While algo means "something" in a question, note that in negative sentences, it is more natural to use nada (nothing) instead.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form quieres algo uses the informal tú conjugation of the verb querer. To address a group of people (you all), use quieren algo. If you want to ask politely if you can have or do something, you can use the conditional form podría (Could I).
How do you pronounce it?
/kjeɾes alɡo/
Did you know?
- The verb querer used in quieres algo can also mean 'to love' when referring to friends and family. Depending on the context, it can shift from asking if someone wants an object to expressing deep affection.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, asking ¿Quieres algo? is often a social ritual rather than a literal inquiry, used to show hospitality even if the host assumes the answer is 'no'.
- While algo comes from the Latin aliquod, the word 'aliquod' is actually the direct ancestor of the English word 'aliquot', used in mathematics.
Examples in context
- ¿Quieres algo para beber?Do you want something to drink?This sentence is useful for asking if someone wants something to drink using quieres algo.Tatoeba #2171039 by marcelostockle, translation #64760 by CK
- ¿Quieres algo frío de beber?Do you want something cold to drink?Tatoeba #8947077 by diegohn, translation #3287076 by CK
- "¿Quieres algo de beber?" "No, gracias.""Do you want something to drink?" "No, thank you."This sentence shows a typical exchange of offering something to drink with quieres algo and how to decline politely.Tatoeba #1038549 by massama, translation #7823329 by eggershead
- Quisiera hacer una reserva para esta noche.I would like to make a reservation for tonight.
- ¿Podría pedir más salsa, por favor?Could I ask for more sauce, please?
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Mateo is at a store and asks Elena if she needs anything.
- Mateo¿Quieres algo de la tienda?Do you want something from the store?
- ElenaNo, no quiero nada, gracias.No, I don't want anything, thank you.
- Mateo¿Estás segura? ¿Quieres algo para comer?Are you sure? Do you want something to eat?
- ElenaSí, quiero un chocolate.Yes, I want a chocolate.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries algo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
