Mastering Spanish: How to Say “What Do You Mean?”

Understanding how to ask “What do you mean?” in Spanish is crucial for effective communication and comprehension. This phrase is essential for clarifying information, expressing confusion, and ensuring you’re on the same page in any conversation.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to various ways of expressing this question in Spanish, covering different contexts, levels of formality, and regional variations. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, this guide will equip you with the necessary tools to confidently navigate conversations and enhance your Spanish language skills.

This guide will benefit students, travelers, and anyone looking to improve their communication in Spanish-speaking environments.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Definition: “¿Qué Quieres Decir?”
• Structural Breakdown
• Types and Categories
  • Formal Expressions
  • Informal Expressions
  • Regional Variations
• Examples
  • General Examples
  • Formal Examples
  • Informal Examples
  • Regional Examples
• Usage Rules
• Common Mistakes
• Practice Exercises
  • Exercise 1: Translation
  • Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks
  • Exercise 3: Dialogue Completion
• Advanced Topics
• FAQ
• Conclusion

Definition: “¿Qué Quieres Decir?”

The most direct translation of “What do you mean?” in Spanish is “¿Qué quieres decir?” This phrase is widely understood and used across various Spanish-speaking countries. It’s a versatile question suitable for many conversational contexts. Understanding its components helps in grasping its meaning and usage. The phrase consists of three main parts:

• ¿Qué? – What?
• quieres – (you) want (from the verb querer)
• decir – to say, to mean

Therefore, a literal translation would be “What do you want to say?” or “What do you want to mean?”. However, the idiomatic translation is simply “What do you mean?”. The verb querer in this context implies intention or desired meaning, making it a natural fit for questioning someone’s intended message. This phrase is generally considered informal, but its common usage makes it acceptable in many everyday situations. In more formal settings, alternative expressions might be preferred.

Structural Breakdown

The structure of “¿Qué quieres decir?” follows a standard question format in Spanish. Let’s break down each component to understand the grammar involved:

1. ¿Qué?: This is an interrogative pronoun, meaning “what.” It initiates the question and directs the inquiry toward the content of the speaker’s statement. In Spanish, question words like qué often appear at the beginning of a sentence.
2. quieres: This is the second-person singular (tú form) present tense conjugation of the verb querer, which means “to want” or “to desire.” In this context, it implies the speaker’s intention or desired meaning. The conjugation changes based on the subject pronoun (e.g., yo quiero, él quiere, nosotros queremos).
3. decir: This is an infinitive verb, meaning “to say” or “to mean.” It completes the phrase by specifying the action being questioned. Infinitives in Spanish always end in -ar, -er, or -ir.

The word order is crucial for understanding the question. Changing the order can alter the meaning or make the sentence grammatically incorrect.

For example, “Decir qué quieres?” is not a natural way to ask the question. The correct order ensures the question is clear and easily understood by native speakers.

Understanding the role of each word allows you to adapt the phrase and create similar questions.

Types and Categories

There are various ways to express “What do you mean?” in Spanish, depending on the context, formality, and regional preferences. These variations allow for more nuanced communication and show a deeper understanding of the language.

Here’s a breakdown of different categories:

Formal Expressions

In formal settings, such as business meetings or interactions with superiors, it’s important to use more polite and respectful language. Here are some formal alternatives:

• ¿Qué quiere decir?: This is the formal “usted” form of “¿Qué quieres decir?”. It’s used when addressing someone with respect.
• ¿Podría explicar a qué se refiere?: This translates to “Could you explain what you are referring to?”. It’s a polite way to ask for clarification.
• ¿A qué se refiere exactamente?: This means “To what exactly are you referring?”. It’s a more direct, yet still formal, way of asking for clarification.

These formal expressions demonstrate respect and professionalism, making them suitable for interactions with people you don’t know well or those in positions of authority. Using the correct level of formality is essential for maintaining good relationships and avoiding misunderstandings.

Informal Expressions

In casual conversations with friends and family, you can use more relaxed and informal expressions. These phrases are common in everyday interactions and reflect a closer relationship with the person you’re speaking to.

• ¿Qué dices?: This literally means “What are you saying?”, but it’s often used to mean “What do you mean?”.
• ¿Cómo?: This simply means “How?” and can be used to express confusion or ask for clarification. It’s similar to saying “Huh?” in English.
• ¿En serio?: This translates to “Seriously?” and can be used to express disbelief or ask for confirmation of something surprising.

These informal expressions are perfect for casual conversations and reflect a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. Using them in the right context can make your Spanish sound more natural and fluent.

Regional Variations

Spanish has many regional variations, and the way you ask “What do you mean?” can differ depending on the country or region. Here are a few examples:

• Spain: In Spain, “¿Qué dices?” is a very common and informal way to ask “What do you mean?”.
• Mexico: In Mexico, “¿Mande?” is sometimes used, especially when asking someone to repeat themselves, but it can also imply “What do you mean?” in certain contexts.
• Argentina: In Argentina, you might hear “¿Qué onda?”, which literally means “What wave?”, but it can also be used to ask “What’s up?” or “What do you mean?”.

Being aware of these regional variations can help you better understand and communicate with people from different Spanish-speaking countries. It also shows respect for their culture and language.

Examples

Understanding the different ways to say “What do you mean?” in Spanish is important, but seeing them in context is even more helpful. Here are several examples, categorized by formality, to illustrate their usage:

General Examples

This table provides general examples of the most common ways to ask “What do you mean?” in Spanish, suitable for a variety of situations.

Formal Examples

The following table provides examples of formal expressions for asking “What do you mean?” in Spanish, suitable for professional or respectful contexts.

Informal Examples

This table provides examples of informal expressions for asking “What do you mean?” in Spanish, suitable for casual conversations with friends and family.

Regional Examples

This table showcases regional variations of asking “What do you mean?” in Spanish, highlighting the diversity of the language across different countries.

Usage Rules

Using “What do you mean?” correctly in Spanish involves understanding a few key rules and considerations. These guidelines will help you avoid common mistakes and ensure your communication is clear and effective.

1. Formality: Choose the appropriate expression based on the context and your relationship with the speaker. Use formal expressions in professional settings and informal expressions with friends and family.
2. Pronoun Usage: Be mindful of pronoun usage, especially when using the formal “usted” form. Ensure the verb conjugation matches the pronoun. For example, use “¿Qué quiere decir?” (usted) instead of “¿Qué quieres decir?” (tú).
3. Intonation: Use the correct intonation when asking the question. In Spanish, questions typically have a rising intonation at the end.
4. Word Order: Maintain the correct word order in the sentence. Question words like qué usually come at the beginning of the question.
5. Regional Variations: Be aware of regional variations and use expressions that are common and understood in the specific region you’re in.

Following these usage rules will help you communicate effectively and avoid misunderstandings in Spanish-speaking environments. It’s also important to listen to native speakers and observe how they use these expressions in different contexts.

Common Mistakes

Even experienced learners make mistakes. Here are some common errors when asking “What do you mean?” in Spanish and how to avoid them:

• Using the wrong form of querer: A common mistake is using the incorrect conjugation of the verb querer. For example, saying “¿Qué quiero decir?” (What do I want to say?) instead of “¿Qué quieres decir?” (What do you want to say?).
• Incorrect word order: Mixing up the word order can make the question sound unnatural or confusing. Avoid saying things like “¿Decir qué quieres?” instead of “¿Qué quieres decir?“.
• Using informal expressions in formal settings: Using informal phrases like “¿Qué dices?” in a business meeting can be inappropriate. Always consider the context and choose the appropriate level of formality.
• Ignoring regional variations: Using an expression that’s common in one country but not in another can lead to confusion. Be aware of regional differences and adapt your language accordingly.

Here are some examples of correct and incorrect usage:

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding with these practice exercises. The answers are provided below each exercise to help you check your progress.

Exercise 1: Translation

Translate the following sentences into Spanish, using different ways to ask “What do you mean?”.

1. What do you mean by that statement?
2. Can you explain what you mean?
3. What are you trying to say?
4. I don’t understand what you mean.
5. What do you mean, exactly?
6. Are you serious? What do you mean?
7. What’s that supposed to mean?
8. What do you mean; I’m not following.
9. What do you mean by bringing that up?
10. What do you mean, please?

Answers:

1. ¿Qué quieres decir con esa declaración?
2. ¿Puedes explicar qué quieres decir?
3. ¿Qué estás tratando de decir?
4. No entiendo lo que quieres decir.
5. ¿Qué quieres decir, exactamente?
6. ¿En serio? ¿Qué quieres decir?
7. ¿Qué se supone que significa eso?
8. ¿Qué quieres decir?; No te sigo.
9. ¿Qué quieres decir al mencionar eso?
10. ¿Qué quiere decir, por favor?

Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the following sentences with the appropriate Spanish phrase to ask “What do you mean?”.

1. A: “Creo que deberíamos vender el coche.” B: “_____________, ¿por qué?”
2. “_____________, no te entiendo,” dijo María.
3. En una reunión formal: “¿_____________, por favor?”
4. A: “Voy a renunciar a mi trabajo.” B: “¿_____________, estás loco?”
5. “_____________, ¿a qué te refieres con ‘quizás’?”
6. A: “Todo va a cambiar.” B: “¿_____________, cómo así?” (Colombia)
7. “_____________, ¿me lo puedes explicar de nuevo?”
8. A: “No estoy de acuerdo con tu plan.” B: “¿_____________, por qué no?”
9. “_____________, ¿me estás tomando el pelo?” (Spain)
10. En México: “¿_____________, no te escuché bien.”

Answers:

1. ¿Qué quieres decir?
2. ¿Qué quieres decir?
3. ¿Qué quiere decir?
4. ¿Qué dices?
5. ¿Qué quieres decir?
6. ¿Cómo así?
7. ¿Qué quieres decir?
8. ¿Qué quieres decir?
9. ¿Me estás vacilando?
10. ¿Mande?

Exercise 3: Dialogue Completion

Complete the following dialogues by adding appropriate questions to clarify what the speaker means.

1. A: “Creo que deberíamos mudarnos.” B: “_____________” A: “Porque necesito un cambio.”
2. A: “El proyecto es inviable.” B: “_____________” A: “Los costos son demasiado altos.”
3. A: “Estoy muy decepcionado.” B: “_____________” A: “Con los resultados del examen.”
4. A: “Necesito un favor.” B: “_____________” A: “Necesito que me prestes dinero.”
5. A: “La situación es complicada.” B: “_____________” A: “Hay muchos factores involucrados.”
6. A: “Voy a cambiar de opinión.” B: “_____________” A: “Después de pensarlo mejor.”
7. A: “Estoy de acuerdo contigo.” B: “_____________” A: “En que debemos ser más pacientes.”
8. A: “No estoy seguro de nada.” B: “_____________” A: “Sobre mi futuro.”
9. A: “Esto es inaceptable.” B: “_____________” A: “El trato que recibimos.”
10. A: “Tengo una sorpresa.” B: “_____________” A: “Ya lo verás.”

Answers: (Possible answers – multiple options may be correct)

1. ¿Qué quieres decir?
2. ¿A qué te refieres?
3. ¿Con qué estás decepcionado? / ¿Qué quieres decir?
4. ¿Qué tipo de favor? / ¿A qué te refieres?
5. ¿A qué te refieres? / ¿Qué quieres decir?
6. ¿Por qué vas a cambiar de opinión? / ¿Qué quieres decir?
7. ¿En qué estás de acuerdo? / ¿Qué quieres decir?
8. ¿De qué no estás seguro? / ¿Qué quieres decir?
9. ¿Qué es inaceptable? / ¿A qué te refieres?
10. ¿Qué sorpresa? / ¿Qué quieres decir?

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, exploring more nuanced aspects of expressing “What do you mean?” can enhance your communication skills. This includes understanding idiomatic expressions, cultural contexts, and subtle differences in meaning.

• Idiomatic Expressions: Spanish has many idiomatic expressions that can be used to express confusion or ask for clarification. These expressions often have a figurative meaning and require a deeper understanding of the language.
• Cultural Context: Understanding the cultural context is crucial for effective communication. In some cultures, direct questions may be considered rude, while in others, they are expected.
• Subtle Differences in Meaning: Different phrases can convey slightly different nuances. For example, “¿Qué quieres decir?” is a general question, while “¿A qué te refieres?” is more specific.

Mastering these advanced topics will allow you to communicate with greater precision and sensitivity in Spanish-speaking environments. It also demonstrates a high level of proficiency and cultural awareness.

FAQ

1. Is “¿Qué quieres decir?” always appropriate?

   While “¿Qué quieres decir?” is widely understood, it’s generally considered informal. In formal settings, it’s better to use more polite alternatives like “¿Qué quiere decir, por favor?” or “¿Podría explicar a qué se refiere?”. The context of the conversation and your relationship with the speaker should guide your choice.

2. What’s the difference between “¿Qué quieres decir?” and “¿Qué significa eso?”?

   “¿Qué quieres decir?” translates to “What do you mean?”, asking for clarification on the speaker’s intention or message. “¿Qué significa eso?” translates to “What does that mean?”, asking for the definition or meaning of a specific word or phrase. The first seeks understanding of the speaker’s purpose, while the second seeks a definition.

3. How do regional variations affect the use of these phrases?

   Regional variations can significantly impact the appropriateness and understanding of certain phrases. For example, “¿Mande?” is common in Mexico but might sound strange in Spain. Being aware of these variations is crucial for effective communication. Researching common phrases in the specific region you’re visiting or interacting with can prevent misunderstandings.

4. Can I use “¿Cómo?” to ask “What do you mean?” in all situations?

   While “¿Cómo?” can be used to express confusion or ask for clarification, it’s quite informal and best suited for casual conversations. In more formal settings, it’s better to use more elaborate phrases to avoid sounding impolite. It can also be similar to someone saying “Huh?” in English.

5. What are some common mistakes to avoid when using these phrases?

   Common mistakes include using the wrong conjugation of verbs, incorrect word order, and using informal expressions in formal settings. Always double-check your grammar and consider the context before speaking. Practicing with native speakers and receiving feedback can also help you avoid these errors.

6. How can I improve my understanding of idiomatic expressions related to this topic?

   To improve your understanding of idiomatic expressions, immerse yourself in the language by reading books,

   watching movies, and listening to music in Spanish. Pay attention to how native speakers use these expressions in different contexts. You can also ask native speakers to explain the meaning and usage of unfamiliar idioms.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of asking “What do you mean?” in Spanish is a valuable skill that enhances your communication abilities and allows you to navigate conversations with confidence. By understanding the nuances of formality, regional variations, and idiomatic expressions, you can effectively clarify information, express confusion, and ensure mutual understanding.

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, the knowledge and practice provided in this guide will empower you to communicate more effectively in Spanish-speaking environments. Keep practicing, immerse yourself in the language, and don’t be afraid to ask for clarification when needed.

With dedication and effort, you’ll become a proficient communicator in Spanish.