Learning Spanish can seem daunting at first. There is so much vocabulary and so many expressions that the learning curve may start to feel more like a mountain. Not to worry! There are a variety of handy phrases to get started with Spanish. Whether you are meeting/greeting new people, ordering food at a restaurant or interested in purchasing something at a local market, adding some of these expressions to your early vocabulary repertoire will help take your Spanish to the next level and most importantly, get you talking faster!
| Para mí/quiero el pescado, por favor |
For me/I want the fish, please |
| Me sirve más cafe por favor |
Can you serve me more coffee please (formal) |
| Me trae una cuchara por favor |
Can you bring me a spoon please (formal) |
| Es delicioso, me gusta mucho |
It’s delicious, I really like it |
| ¡Buen provecho! |
Enjoy your meal |
| *Cultural Note: You will hear people say this to others at their table and even to complete strangers. For example, if another couple is being sat at a table nearby and you have just been served your food, it is completely normal for them to say “buen provecho” to you. Just smile and nod or say “gracias.” |
For many beginners, speaking a foreign language can be the hardest skill to acquire. As adults we are used to dominating our language where we can effortlessly express every thought, opinion, emotion and desire. Learning a foreign language forces us into a vulnerable, childlike state where we are not able to completely express ourselves. These useful Spanish phrases will help you conquer your first experience in a Spanish speaking environment, whether it be traveling to a Spanish speaking country or going to the Mexican market around the corner. They also serve as great starter Spanish phrases for kids as well!
Not sure where to start? Choose ten phrases from this list and master them to gain confidence before moving onto the next ten. Before you know it, these expressions will start to roll off your tongue naturally. But the most important step is to let go of your fear and get out there and start speaking!
