Common Phrases for Daily Conversations
When diving into daily conversations in Spanish, it's all about being comfortable with the language's rhythm and flow. Here’s an essential collection of common phrases that will help you glide through your day-to-day interactions, whether you’re meeting someone new, catching up with friends, or navigating various social situations.
Greetings
1. ¡Hola! – Hello!
A staple of any conversation, this friendly greeting sets the tone for a welcoming exchange.
2. Buenos días. – Good morning.
Use this phrase in the morning until around midday.
3. Buenas tardes. – Good afternoon.
This is appropriate to say from midday until the evening.
4. Buenas noches. – Good evening / Good night.
You can use this greeting in the evening or when saying goodbye at night.
5. ¿Cómo estás? – How are you?
A classic follow-up after a greeting, this phrase opens the door to more personal conversations.
6. Estoy bien, gracias. ¿Y tú? – I’m fine, thank you. And you?
A polite response to “¿Cómo estás?” that maintains the conversational flow.
7. ¿Qué tal? – What’s up?
A casual, friendly way to ask how someone is doing.
Small Talk
8. ¿Qué hay de nuevo? – What’s new?
This expression invites your conversation partner to share any updates or news.
9. Hace buen tiempo. – It’s nice weather.
Perfect for initiating conversation about the weather, a classic small talk topic.
10. ¿Te gusta este lugar? – Do you like this place?
This can be handy when you’re at a café, bar, or any public space to engage with others.
11. He oído que… – I’ve heard that…
Use this phrase to introduce a new subject or piece of information you’d like to share.
12. ¿Qué opinas sobre…? – What do you think about…?
This phrase encourages opinions and perspectives on various topics, helping the conversation to expand.
13. ¿Has visto la última película? – Have you seen the latest movie?
Perfect for initiating discussions about entertainment, especially if you share similar interests.
14. ¿Cuáles son tus planes para el fin de semana? – What are your plans for the weekend?
This question fosters a more personal connection, inviting others to share their plans and hobbies.
Polite Expressions
15. Por favor. – Please.
A must-know phrase that shows respect and politeness in any conversation.
16. Gracias. – Thank you.
An essential phrase for expressing gratitude that fits in numerous situations.
17. De nada. – You’re welcome.
Use this in response to “Gracias” to be polite and acknowledge their thanks.
18. Disculpa / Perdón. – Excuse me / Sorry.
These phrases are important for apologizing or getting someone’s attention.
19. ¿Podrías ayudarme? – Could you help me?
Useful when you need assistance with something, whether it's directions or advice.
20. No entiendo. – I don’t understand.
Honesty is key! Use this phrase if you’re struggling to keep up with the conversation.
21. ¿Puedes repetirlo, por favor? – Can you repeat that, please?
A great way to indicate that you need clarification or repetition.
Expressing Feelings and Opinions
22. Me gusta. – I like it.
Use this to express likes and interests in casual conversations.
23. No me gusta. – I don’t like it.
Conversely, this expresses dislikes clearly.
24. Estoy de acuerdo. – I agree.
A great way to show your alignment with someone’s viewpoint.
25. No estoy de acuerdo. – I disagree.
Use this for expressing an opposing opinion respectfully.
26. ¡Qué interesante! – How interesting!
An enthusiastic way to react to something intriguing shared by someone else.
27. Me alegra oír eso. – I’m glad to hear that.
A warm way to express happiness for someone else’s good fortune.
Making Plans
28. ¿Quieres salir esta noche? – Do you want to go out tonight?
This is a direct way to invite someone to join you for an outing.
29. ¿A qué hora nos encontramos? – What time shall we meet?
A practical question for solidifying plans with friends or acquaintances.
30. Tal vez otro día. – Maybe another day.
Use this when you can’t commit to something now but would consider it later.
31. Estoy ocupada (o). – I’m busy.
A polite way to express that you have prior commitments.
32. Suena bien. – Sounds good.
This phrase is ideal for confirming plans or ideas proposed during a conversation.
Parting Ways
33. Hasta luego. – See you later.
A friendly way to say goodbye when you expect to see the person again soon.
34. Adiós. – Goodbye.
A classic farewell that works in any situation.
35. Que tengas un buen día. – Have a nice day.
A pleasant way to conclude a conversation, expressing goodwill.
36. Cuídate. – Take care.
A caring send-off that shows you value the other person's well-being.
37. Nos vemos pronto. – See you soon.
A warm way to express that you look forward to your next meeting.
Conclusion
Mastering these common phrases will not only enhance your conversational Spanish but also help you feel more confident in engaging with native speakers. Whether you are meeting new friends, discussing interests, or simply navigating everyday interactions, the right phrases can help you create meaningful connections.
Remember, practice makes perfect! Try using these phrases in your conversations and feel the rhythm of the language flow through you. With continued practice, you’ll find that daily conversations in Spanish become more natural and enjoyable. Happy speaking!