How to Express ‘What Are You Doing-‘ in Spanish- A Guide to Conversational Phrases

How to Say “What Are You Doing” in Spanish

If you’re planning to travel to a Spanish-speaking country or if you simply want to impress your Spanish-speaking friends, it’s essential to know how to express common phrases in the language. One of the most basic and useful questions you can ask is “What are you doing?” This article will guide you through the process of saying this phrase in Spanish, as well as provide some additional context and examples.

Understanding the Structure

To say “What are you doing?” in Spanish, you need to understand the structure of the sentence. The phrase is composed of three main parts: the subject, the verb, and the object. In this case, the subject is “you” (usted or vosotros depending on the level of formality), the verb is “to be” (estar or estar), and the object is “doing” (haciendo). The structure of the sentence in Spanish is different from English, as the verb usually comes after the subject.

Formal and Informal Versions

In Spanish, there are two ways to address someone: formally (usted) and informally (vosotros). The formal version is used with people you don’t know well, elders, or in professional settings, while the informal version is used with friends, family, and close acquaintances. Here’s how you can say “What are you doing?” in both formal and informal Spanish:

– Formal: ¿Usted qué está haciendo?
– Informal: ¿Vosotros qué estáis haciendo?

Additional Examples

Now that you know the basic structure and the formal and informal versions of the phrase, let’s look at some additional examples to help you practice:

– ¿Usted qué está haciendo? (Formal)
– ¿Vosotros qué estáis haciendo? (Informal)
– ¿Qué estás haciendo? (Slang, informal)
– ¿Qué estás haciendo, amigo? (Slang, informal)
– ¿Qué está haciendo usted? (Formal)
– ¿Qué estáis haciendo vosotros? (Formal)

Practice and Usage

To become proficient in Spanish, it’s crucial to practice regularly. Try using these phrases in different contexts, such as when you meet someone new, during a conversation with a friend, or even while watching a Spanish TV show. Remember that pronunciation and intonation are important in Spanish, so listen to native speakers and try to mimic their style.

In conclusion, learning how to say “What are you doing?” in Spanish is a valuable skill that can help you connect with Spanish speakers and navigate different situations. By understanding the structure, mastering the formal and informal versions, and practicing regularly, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident Spanish speaker. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)