Commands in Spanish are quick, easy one word verbs to get something done! That’s why commands in Spanish are so necessary for your next trip to Latin America or Spain, whether you’re interacting with children, traveling around, or working in a professional setting. Check CGI’s upcoming workshop series all about commands here!
Spanish commands: Tú
In Spanish, you can use Tú commands to communicate with children or your peers. If you’re traveling to a Spanish speaking country, the most likely situation will be chit chatting with children. Little ones are some of the best practice partners! That’s why it’s important to learn Spanish commands for your next trip!
Check the reel to learn 5 easy and simple Tú commands in exchanges with kids or peers.
| Venir | Ven | Come |
| Hacer(lo) | Hazlo | Do it |
| Decir(me) | Dime | Tell me |
| Salir | Sal | Leave / get out |
| Ponerlo (neg.) | No lo pongas | Don’t put it |
Spanish commands: Usted
Usted commands usually aren’t a top priority for travelers when they’re brushing up on their Spanish before a trip. On the contrary! It’s highly recommendable to learn a few basic Usted commands that can make a big difference in how your perceived by locals. Remember to use Usted commands when talking to adults you don’t know, the elderly, authority figures, staff, and anyone else that might merit a certain level of politeness.
Take a look at this reel to learn 3 key Usted commands that you can use while traveling.
| Sentarse (e-ie) | Siéntese | Sit down |
| Dar(me) | Déme | Give me |
| Disculpar | Disculpe | Excuse me, sorry |
In Professional Settings: Usted commands
If you’re planning to work abroad in a Spanish-speaking country, even if it’s a job you’re not necessarily required to have top-level Spanish skills, like working at a hostal, doing volunteer work, or going on an CGI immersion trip, Usted commands are very useful to get things done. Usually, as the newbie on the job, it’s a good practice to use the extra layer of politeness Usted commands afford when interacting with colleagues, clients, patients, stakeholders, or bosses. Once you become familiar, you can switch to Tú!
Check the video to learn 3 important Usted commands to use in the workplace.
| Mandar(me) | Mándeme | Send me |
| Avisar(me) | Avíseme | Let me know, notify me |
| Decir(le) | Dígale | Tell him/her |
