Asking “What is that?” in Spanish is an essential phrase for any traveler or Spanish learner. Whether you’re curious about a dish on a menu, a landmark in a new city, or simply want to clarify something you’ve heard, knowing how to ask this question will help you communicate effectively. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to say “What is that?” in Spanish, including the various ways to phrase it, the appropriate pronunciation, and some helpful tips for using it in real-life situations.
The most common way to say “What is that?” in Spanish is “¿Qué es eso?”. This phrase is used in most Spanish-speaking countries and is generally considered to be the most polite and respectful way to ask this question. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.
Another way to say “What is that?” in Spanish is “¿Qué es esto?”. This phrase is used when you’re talking about something that is close to you or that you’re holding in your hand. It’s also used when you’re asking about something that you’re already familiar with.
Pronunciation of “¿Qué es eso?”
The correct pronunciation of “¿Qué es eso?” is “kay es eh-soh”. The accent is on the last syllable, and the “e” in “eso” is pronounced like the “e” in “set”.
Formal vs. Informal Phrases
There are both formal and informal ways to say “What is that?” in Spanish. The formal phrase is “¿Qué es eso?”, while the informal phrase is “¿Qué es esto?”. The formal phrase is used in more formal settings, such as when you’re speaking to a stranger or a person in a position of authority. The informal phrase is used in less formal settings, such as when you’re speaking to a friend or family member.
Tips for Using “¿Qué es eso?”
Here are some helpful tips for using “¿Qué es eso?” in real-life situations:
- Use the correct pronunciation: Make sure to pronounce “¿Qué es eso?” correctly to avoid confusion.
- Be polite: Use the formal phrase “¿Qué es eso?” when speaking to strangers or people in positions of authority.
- Use the informal phrase “¿Qué es esto?” when speaking to friends or family members.
- Be clear: State your question clearly and concisely to avoid confusion.
- Be patient: Wait for the person to answer your question before asking it again.
Variations of the Phrase
There are several variations of the phrase “¿Qué es eso?” that you can use depending on the situation. Here are a few of the most common variations:
- ¿Qué es eso que tienes en la mano? (What is that you have in your hand?)
- ¿Qué es eso que estás comiendo? (What are you eating?)
- ¿Qué es eso que está haciendo? (What is that doing?)
- ¿Qué es eso que está diciendo? (What is that saying?)
FAQs
How do you say “What is that?” in Spanish?
The most common way to say “What is that?” in Spanish is “¿Qué es eso?”.
How do you pronounce “¿Qué es eso?”?
The correct pronunciation of “¿Qué es eso?” is “kay es eh-soh”.
Is it polite to say “¿Qué es esto?” instead of “¿Qué es eso?”?
No, it’s not polite to say “¿Qué es esto?” instead of “¿Qué es eso?” The formal phrase “¿Qué es eso?” should be used when speaking to strangers or people in positions of authority.
Can you use “¿Qué es eso?” to ask about something that you’re already familiar with?
Yes, you can use “¿Qué es eso?” to ask about something that you’re already familiar with. However, it’s more common to use the phrase “¿Qué es esto?” in this situation.
What are some variations of the phrase “¿Qué es eso?”?
There are several variations of the phrase “¿Qué es eso?” that you can use depending on the situation. Here are a few of the most common variations:
- ¿Qué es eso que tienes en la mano? (What is that you have in your hand?)
- ¿Qué es eso que estás comiendo? (What are you eating?)
- ¿Qué es eso que está haciendo? (What is that doing?)
- ¿Qué es eso que está diciendo? (What is that saying?)
Conclusion
Asking “What is that?” in Spanish is an essential phrase for any traveler or Spanish learner. By following the tips and information provided in this guide, you’ll be able to confidently ask this question and communicate effectively in Spanish. Remember to use the correct pronunciation, choose the appropriate phrase for the situation, and be clear and concise in your question. With a little practice, you’ll be able to master this phrase and use it to navigate any Spanish-speaking environment.