Spanish Vocabulary Archives - Homeschool Spanish Academy https://www.spanish.academy/blog/category/teach-spanish-free-grammar-vocabulary-reading/spanish-vocabulary/ 1-on-1 Online Spanish Lessons. Get to Spanish fluency on your time. Tue, 24 Jun 2025 17:13:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://www.spanish.academy/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/cropped-Favicon_V_1-32x32.png Spanish Vocabulary Archives - Homeschool Spanish Academy https://www.spanish.academy/blog/category/teach-spanish-free-grammar-vocabulary-reading/spanish-vocabulary/ 32 32 From Snacks to Dinners: Spanish Vocabulary for Food That Teens Actually Talk About https://www.spanish.academy/blog/spanish-vocabulary-for-food-that-teens-actually-talk-bout/ https://www.spanish.academy/blog/spanish-vocabulary-for-food-that-teens-actually-talk-bout/#respond Mon, 07 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.spanish.academy/?p=30553 Food is one of the most natural, relatable ways to make Spanish come alive, especially for teens. Whether grabbing snacks with friends, ordering at a restaurant, or helping with dinner at home, food vocabulary gives beginner learners real-world words they can use daily. For parents who want to support their teens’ Spanish fluency journey without […]

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Food is one of the most natural, relatable ways to make Spanish come alive, especially for teens. Whether grabbing snacks with friends, ordering at a restaurant, or helping with dinner at home, food vocabulary gives beginner learners real-world words they can use daily.

For parents who want to support their teens’ Spanish fluency journey without speaking the language themselves, this vocabulary is a win-win. It’s easy to practice, fun to remember, and instantly relevant.

In this blog, you’ll find themed vocabulary lists covering everything from fast food favorites to common cooking verbs, sample sentences, and helpful context.

These phrases will help your teen build confidence, speak more naturally, and see that Spanish is more than a subject; it’s a skill they can use anytime, anywhere.

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1. Snack Time Talk – Teen Munchies in Spanish

These are the words your teen can use when talking about after-school snacks, vending machines, or fast food hangouts.

  • Papas fritas – French fries
    Common in Latin America, especially at fast food restaurants.
    Quiero papas fritas con mi hamburguesa. – I want fries with my burger.
  • Galletas – Cookies
    Not just sweet treats, but also common in lunchboxes.
    Hay galletas de chocolate en la mesa. – There are chocolate cookies on the table.
  • Refresco/Gaseosa – Soda
    You might hear bebida in Spain, but refresco or gaseosa are widely used across Latin America.
    Prefiero un refresco frío. – I prefer a cold soda.
  • Papitas – Chips
    A casual, affectionate way to refer to potato chips.
    Voy a comprar unas papitas para el recreo. – I’m going to buy some chips for break time.
  • Hamburguesa – Burger
    Teens love fast food, and this word pops up often.
    ¡Esta hamburguesa está deliciosa! – This burger is delicious!
  • Pollo frito – Fried chicken
    Especially popular in Caribbean and Southern U.S. Latino cultures.
    Vamos a cenar pollo frito esta noche. – We’re having fried chicken for dinner tonight.

2. What’s for Dinner? – Family Meals at Home

These words help teens describe and participate in everyday meals, especially those shared with family.

  • Arroz – Rice
    A staple in many Latin American homes.
    El arroz está listo. – The rice is ready.
  • Carne – Meat
    Use it generally or specify (like carne de res for beef).
    Vamos a cocinar carne con papas. – We’re going to cook meat with potatoes.
  • Verduras – Vegetables
    Healthier vocabulary that comes up at dinner and in class nutrition talks.
    Debes comer más verduras. – You should eat more vegetables.
  • Ensalada – Salad
    Same meaning as in English, but a common dinner side.
    Mi abuela hace una ensalada riquísima. – My grandma makes a delicious salad.
  • Pescado – Fish
    Watch the difference: pez is the animal; pescado is the food.
    El pescado está bien cocido. – The fish is well cooked.
  • Tortilla – Flatbread or omelet
    In Mexico, it’s flatbread. In Spain, it’s an egg-and-potato omelet.
    Vamos a calentar las tortillas. – Let’s warm up the tortillas.

3. Sweet Tooth Central – Desserts Teens Love

Dessert vocabulary is not only fun to say, but it also sticks because teens use it often in conversation.

  • Helado – Ice cream
    Great for warm weather and reward days.
    Quiero helado de vainilla. – I want vanilla ice cream.
  • Pastel – Cake
    Not to be confused with tarta (more common in Spain).
    Vamos a comer pastel de cumpleaños. – We’re having birthday cake.
  • Churros – Fried dough sticks
    Often eaten with chocolate sauce in Spain or Mexico.
    Comí churros con mis primos en el mercado. – I ate churros with my cousins at the market.
  • Dulces – Candies
    Used broadly for sweets.
    Los niños tienen muchos dulces. – The kids have a lot of candy.
  • Flan – Caramel custard
    A classic dessert in many Spanish-speaking countries.
    El flan de mi tía es famoso. – My aunt’s flan is famous.

4. Ordering Like a Local – Restaurant Phrases That Work Anywhere

These phrases are perfect for teens to try when dining out, whether on vacation or during a Spanish project.

  • Quiero pedir… – I want to order…
    Quiero pedir una hamburguesa con queso. – I want to order a cheeseburger.
  • Para mí, un… – For me, a…
    Para mí, un taco de pollo. – For me, a chicken taco.
  • ¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
    ¿Cuánto cuesta el combo? – How much is the combo?
  • ¿Tiene opciones vegetarianas? – Do you have vegetarian options?
    ¿Tiene opciones vegetarianas en el menú? – Do you have vegetarian options on the menu?
  • La cuenta, por favor. – The check, please.
    La cuenta, por favor. Ya terminamos. – The check, please. We’re done.

5. In the Kitchen – Cooking Verbs and Recipe Basics

Perfect for teens who like to cook or help out in the kitchen.

  • Mezclar – To mix
    Mezcla el arroz con las verduras. – Mix the rice with the vegetables.
  • Cortar – To cut
    Voy a cortar los tomates. – I’m going to cut the tomatoes.
  • Hervir – To boil
    Tienes que hervir el agua primero. – You have to boil the water first.
  • Freír – To fry
    Vamos a freír los plátanos. – We’re going to fry the plantains.
  • Hornear – To bake
    Me gusta hornear pan los domingos. – I like baking bread on Sundays.
  • Ingredientes – Ingredients
    ¿Cuáles son los ingredientes de esta receta? – What are the ingredients in this recipe?

Bonus Activity: Create Your Own Recipe Card

Pick a favorite food (like sandwiches or tacos), and work together to write the ingredients and steps in Spanish. Even if your child just uses a few verbs and nouns from this list, it reinforces vocabulary with purpose.

Conclusion: Make Spanish Tasty and Memorable

Food vocabulary isn’t just practical, it’s personal.

When teens can talk about what they eat, what they love, and how they help in the kitchen, Spanish becomes more than a subject. It becomes a part of their daily life. These words give your child confidence to speak, connect, and enjoy the learning process without the pressure of perfection. From snacking with friends to ordering at a restaurant, this is language they can use right now.

If you want to keep that momentum going, we invite you to try a free class with Homeschool Spanish Academy. Our program is 100% online, taught by native Spanish-speaking teachers, and offers engaging 1-on-1 or 2-on-1 lessons tailored to your teen’s level and pace.

With flexible scheduling and a supportive curriculum, it’s the perfect next step toward real-world fluency.

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, we make that transformation easier. Our 100% online program offers live sessions with native Spanish-speaking teachers. With a flexible schedule and an engaging curriculum designed for high schoolers, your teen can build fluency step by step and love the process. Ready to see the difference? Try a free class today at Homeschool Spanish Academy.

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Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

- Melanie

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

- Abby

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

- Karie Ann, Parent of 3

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more Spanish Resources for Kids? Check these out!

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What to Say When You’re Not Sure What to Say – in Spanish! https://www.spanish.academy/blog/what-to-say-when-youre-not-sure-what-to-say-in-spanish/ https://www.spanish.academy/blog/what-to-say-when-youre-not-sure-what-to-say-in-spanish/#respond Sat, 05 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.spanish.academy/?p=30557 You’re mid-conversation, and you blank. Use these friendly phrases to keep talking naturally. There’s nothing more frustrating than this: you’re in a Spanish conversation with a family member or friend, you’re doing okay… and then it happens. You get stuck. You freeze. Your brain stalls out, the words vanish, and you’re left smiling awkwardly while […]

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You’re mid-conversation, and you blank. Use these friendly phrases to keep talking naturally.

There’s nothing more frustrating than this: you’re in a Spanish conversation with a family member or friend, you’re doing okay… and then it happens. You get stuck. You freeze. Your brain stalls out, the words vanish, and you’re left smiling awkwardly while the conversation keeps going without you.

If you’ve been there, you’re not alone. Even intermediate Spanish learners—especially teens learning for family connection—hit these roadblocks. But here’s the good news: you don’t need perfect grammar to keep the conversation flowing. What you do need is a small toolkit of phrases you can fall back on when your mind goes blank. Think of them like conversation life rafts.

In this post, you’ll learn exactly what to say in those awkward moments, plus how to sound natural (even if you’re still building your fluency).

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Learning Spanish to connect with family isn’t just about getting the grammar right. It’s about showing up in the conversation, even when nervous or unsure.

According to a study published by the Modern Language Journal, language learners who use communication strategies like asking for clarification or paraphrasing show stronger long-term speaking skills and more confidence overall.

That means the ability to keep talking, even imperfectly, is a huge part of reaching fluency.

Here are some friendly, natural-sounding phrases you can use when the conversation takes an unexpected turn or your vocabulary falls short.

  1. ¿Cómo se dice…?
    How do you say…?
    Use this when you’re searching for a word and want to keep going.
  2. No sé cómo decirlo, pero…
    I don’t know how to say it, but…
    Great for signaling that you’re trying, even if it’s not perfect.
  3. ¿Puedes repetir eso más despacio?
    Can you repeat that more slowly?
    A must-have when things move too fast.
  4. ¿Qué significa eso?
    What does that mean?
    Use this to ask about a word you don’t recognize.
  5. Es como…
    It’s like…
    A helpful way to describe something when you don’t know the exact term.
  6. Olvidé la palabra.
    I forgot the word.
    Simple and honest. It helps keep the conversation going.
  7. Estoy aprendiendo, así que mi español no es perfecto.
    I’m learning, so my Spanish’s not perfect.
    A great phrase to build grace for yourself, and invite patience from others.
  8. Más o menos.
    More or less.
    Use this when you want to agree or acknowledge, but aren’t fully sure.
  9. Creo que sí, pero no estoy segura.
    I think so, but I’m not sure.
    Honest, natural, and still keeps you in the conversation.
  10. ¿Me puedes ayudar a decirlo mejor?
    Can you help me say it better?
    Great for practice and strengthening relationships with those who support your learning.
  11. Un momento… estoy pensando.
    One moment… I’m thinking.
    This buys you time in a natural way.
  12. ¿Lo dije bien?
    Did I say that right?
    Shows you’re trying and opens the door for gentle correction.

When you’re learning Spanish to talk to your abuela, your cousins, or Spanish-speaking friends, using these phrases shows them that you care. You’re not trying to be perfect, you’re trying to connect. That effort matters. It creates closeness. It shows heart.

While perfection might seem like the goal, connection and confidence actually drive language retention. Studies show that emotionally relevant conversations help learners retain vocabulary and structure more effectively than memorization or rote practice.

That’s where 1-on-1 lessons with native-speaking teachers can really make a difference. At Homeschool Spanish Academy, we offer personalized instruction that helps you use phrases like these in natural conversations, without pressure. You’ll get to speak, make mistakes, and build fluency in a space that feels safe and encouraging.

Ready to take it further? Click here to book a free trial class and start practicing the way real people speak.

Freezing in a conversation doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means you’re learning. With a few of these go-to phrases in your back pocket, you can stay present, confident, and most importantly, keep talking.

Because fluency isn’t about having every word. It’s about never giving up on connection.

certified teachers
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Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

- Melanie

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

- Abby

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

- Karie Ann, Parent of 3

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more Spanish Vocabulary? Check these out!

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Real Spanish for Real Life: Top Beginner Phrases https://www.spanish.academy/blog/skip-the-flashcards-lets-start-speaking/ https://www.spanish.academy/blog/skip-the-flashcards-lets-start-speaking/#respond Wed, 02 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.spanish.academy/?p=30552 When your teens start learning Spanish, they don’t just need grammar rules; they need real words they can actually use. That’s where this blog comes in. Whether they’re navigating class, chatting with friends, or running errands with you, these beginner-friendly Spanish phrases will help them speak with confidence from day one. Instead of memorization, your […]

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When your teens start learning Spanish, they don’t just need grammar rules; they need real words they can actually use. That’s where this blog comes in.

Whether they’re navigating class, chatting with friends, or running errands with you, these beginner-friendly Spanish phrases will help them speak with confidence from day one. Instead of memorization, your teen will get expressions they can practice daily, phrases that help them start conversations, ask questions, and express their feelings.

For parents who want to be part of the learning journey but don’t speak Spanish themselves, these phrases are easy to review together. They’re a simple, meaningful step toward the bigger goal: real fluency, valuable skills, and a teen who feels proud of their progress.

Let’s skip the flashcards and start speaking.

Join 559 million people on the planet who speak Spanish!
Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today. ➡

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1. Say Hello Like You Mean It (Introductions & Greetings)

Starting a conversation takes courage, especially in a new language. These greeting phrases make that first step easier.

  • ¿Cómo te llamas?– What’s your name? Use this when meeting someone new. ¿Cómo te llamas? – What’s your name?
  • Me llamo… – My name is… Your teen will say this countless times when introducing themselves. Me llamo Diego. – My name is Diego.
  • Mucho gusto – Nice to meet you. A polite, warm response to meeting someone. Mucho gusto, Carla. – Nice to meet you, Carla.
  • ¿Cómo estás? – How are you? Used informally among friends. ¿Cómo estás hoy? – How are you today?
  • Estoy bien / cansado(a) / más o menos – I’m good / tired / so-so. Simple responses to describe how they feel. Estoy cansado hoy. – I’m tired today.

2. School Talk They’ll Actually Use (Classroom Language)

Help your child feel more confident in the classroom with these key expressions.

  • ¿Puedo ir al baño?– Can I go to the bathroom? A must-have classroom request. ¿Puedo ir al baño, por favor? – Can I go to the bathroom, please?
  • No entiendo – I don’t understand. This one gives them a tool to ask for help. Lo siento, no entiendo la pregunta. – Sorry, I don’t understand the question.
  • ¿Puedes repetir eso?– Can you repeat that? Helps them clarify when they miss something. ¿Puedes repetir eso, por favor? – Can you repeat that, please?
  • ¿Qué significa…? – What does … mean? For asking about new words. ¿Qué significa “libro”? – What does “libro” mean?
  • ¿Hay tarea? – Is there homework? Keeps them on top of assignments. ¿Hay tarea para mañana? – Is there homework for tomorrow?

3. Make It Social (Friendship & Hanging Out)

Give your teen vocabulary that makes Spanish feel cool, not just academic.

  • ¿Qué haces? – What are you doing? A go-to question between friends. ¿Qué haces este fin de semana? – What are you doing this weekend?
  • Nada, solo estoy chillin’ – Nothing, just chilling. Blending English and Spanish is common among teens. Nada, solo estoy chillin’ en casa. – Nothing, just chilling at home.
  • ¿Quieres salir? – Want to hang out? Friendly invite to socialize. ¿Quieres salir después de clase? – Want to hang out after class?
  • ¡Qué padre! / ¡Qué chévere! – That’s cool! “Padre” is used in Mexico; “chévere” is common in the Caribbean and South America. ¡Qué chévere tu mochila! – Your backpack is so cool!
  • Estoy aburrido(a) – I’m bored. Good for expressing common teen feelings. Estoy aburrido de esta película. – I’m bored of this movie.

4. Speak from the Heart (Emotions & Opinions)

Language is about expressing yourself. These phrases help teens say what they really feel.

  • Estoy feliz / triste / enojado(a) – I’m happy / sad / angry. Core emotional vocabulary. Estoy feliz porque saqué una buena nota. – I’m happy because I got a good grade.
  • Tengo hambre / sueño – I’m hungry/sleepy. Very relatable phrases. Tengo sueño. No dormí bien. – I’m sleepy. I didn’t sleep well.
  • No me gusta eso – I don’t like that. Great for expressing preferences. No me gusta ese programa. – I don’t like that show.
  • ¡Eso me encanta! – I love that! Positive and enthusiastic. ¡Esa canción me encanta! – I love that song!
  • ¡Eso es injusto! – That’s unfair! Perfect for teen conversations. ¡Eso es injusto! Yo lavé los platos ayer. – That’s unfair! I did the dishes yesterday.

5. Talk Like You’re Out and About (Supermarket Spanish)

Real-life errands offer great opportunities for speaking Spanish.

  • ¿Dónde está la leche? – Where is the milk? Everyday vocabulary in action. ¿Dónde está la leche? No la veo. – Where is the milk? I don’t see it.
  • Quiero comprar frutas – I want to buy fruit. Basic shopping language. Quiero comprar frutas para el desayuno. – I want to buy fruit for breakfast.
  • ¿Cuánto cuesta esto? – How much does this cost? A great survival phrase. ¿Cuánto cuesta esto? – How much does this cost?
  • ¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta? – Can I pay with a card? Good for modern shopping situations. ¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta de crédito? – Can I pay with a credit card?
  • Necesitamos más pan – We need more bread. Useful for errands and daily conversation. Necesitamos más pan para los sandwiches. – We need more bread for the sandwiches.
  • Gracias, que tenga un buen día – Thank you, have a nice day. Always polite, always welcome. Gracias, que tenga un buen día, señora. – Thank you, have a nice day, ma’am.

Mini Practice Activity: Phrase Challenge

Each day this week, have your teen pick three phrases from this list and use them aloud, whether in a roleplay with you, in a text message, or during their lesson. Keep score and celebrate wins together!

Build Confidence, One Phrase at a Time

The phrases your teen learned today are more than just vocabulary; they build blocks for honest conversations, self-expression, and meaningful connection. This list is just the beginning, but it’s a powerful one. Encouraging your child to use even a few new phrases each week can transform Spanish from a school subject into a real-life skill they own with pride.

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, we make that transformation easier. Our 100% online program offers live sessions with native Spanish-speaking teachers. With a flexible schedule and an engaging curriculum designed for high schoolers, your teen can build fluency step by step and love the process. Ready to see the difference? Try a free class today at Homeschool Spanish Academy.

certified teachers
free Spanish class button

Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

- Melanie

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

- Abby

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

- Karie Ann, Parent of 3

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more Spanish Vocabulary? Check these out!

The post Real Spanish for Real Life: Top Beginner Phrases appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

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Your Child Knows Some Spanish Words, Now What? How to Turn Vocabulary Into Real Conversations https://www.spanish.academy/blog/your-child-knows-some-spanish-words-now-what-how-to-turn-vocabulary-into-real-conversations/ https://www.spanish.academy/blog/your-child-knows-some-spanish-words-now-what-how-to-turn-vocabulary-into-real-conversations/#respond Wed, 28 May 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.spanish.academy/?p=30456 Knowing “hola” is a great start, but fluency comes when your child starts using Spanish with confidence. If your elementary-aged child already knows a few basic words and phrases but isn’t quite speaking in full sentences yet, you might be wondering what to do next. Should you wait for more vocabulary to build up? Or […]

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Knowing “hola” is a great start, but fluency comes when your child starts using Spanish with confidence.

If your elementary-aged child already knows a few basic words and phrases but isn’t quite speaking in full sentences yet, you might be wondering what to do next. Should you wait for more vocabulary to build up? Or is it time to help them move into actual conversation?

Here’s the good news: there’s a clear, effective next step, and it’s simpler than you might think. Real conversations!

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Learning vocabulary is like collecting building blocks. It’s necessary, but it doesn’t make a complete structure on its own. To become conversational, children need to understand how to use those blocks together, in context, and in real time.

Many parents hit this same roadblock. Their child can count to twenty, list the days of the week, and maybe sing a song or two, but freezes when asked a question like “¿Qué te gusta?” or “¿Cómo estás hoy?

That’s totally normal and fixable.

According to a report from the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, language learners are more likely to retain and apply vocabulary when it is used in communicative settings that simulate real-life interactions.

In other words, your child needs conversation practice, not just more words.

Elementary learners often pick up vocabulary through songs, games, and repetition. But without regular, structured speaking opportunities, that vocabulary stays passive. What closes the gap is consistent, low-pressure conversation practice in an environment where your child feels supported and not judged.

That’s where a paired (2-on-1) Spanish class comes in.

At Homeschool Spanish Academy, these small-format classes match your child with another learner of a similar level and age. It’s an ideal setup for kids who already know a little Spanish but need help turning that knowledge into real communication.

Unlike one-on-one sessions where your child might feel on the spot, paired classes give them the chance to speak with another student in a casual, friendly way. They learn how to respond, ask questions, and build on what they hear, all essential skills for real-life fluency.

When children see a peer using familiar vocabulary in sentences, they often pick it up faster. One student might say, “Me gusta el helado,” and the other thinks, Oh! I know those words. I can say that, too! This peer modeling makes conversation feel attainable.

Speaking up is easier when it doesn’t feel like a test. In a paired setting, kids aren’t being drilled. They’re chatting, playing, and helping each other. That makes it much easier for shy or hesitant speakers to join in.

Even if you don’t speak Spanish yourself, you can encourage your child to move beyond vocabulary lists and start speaking in simple sentences. Try adding these habits to your week:

Instead of just reviewing flashcards, ask your child, “¿Qué te gusta comer?” or “¿Cuál es tu color favorito?” Even if they respond in English at first, model a simple Spanish answer and encourage them to try.

While setting the table, you can say, “Dos platos, por favor.” Ask, “¿Dónde está la cuchara?” Make Spanish part of your routine. It helps normalize using it in context.

Once a week, let your child share a story, sentence, or song they learned in class. Let them be the expert, and celebrate their effort.

The best way to move from memorizing to speaking is with guided practice and peer connection. Click here to book a free trial class and see how your child responds when they’re gently encouraged to use what they know in conversation.

Your child has already done the hard part—they’ve shown interest, picked up some vocabulary, and started building a foundation. Now it’s time to help them take the next step: using those words to express thoughts, ideas, and feelings.

And the key isn’t more drills or longer homework. It’s conversation. With just the right amount of structure, a friendly peer, and the freedom to practice speaking without pressure, your child can blossom into a confident Spanish speaker.

Language is meant to be shared, and with the right setting, your child will start doing just that.

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Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

- Melanie

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

- Abby

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

- Karie Ann, Parent of 3

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more lists and Spanish Vocabulary? Check these out!

The post Your Child Knows Some Spanish Words, Now What? How to Turn Vocabulary Into Real Conversations appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

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29 Cool and Catchy Spanish Phrases To Use With Friends [+Audio] https://www.spanish.academy/blog/cool-spanish-phrases/ https://www.spanish.academy/blog/cool-spanish-phrases/#respond Sat, 24 May 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.spanish.academy/?p=3632 Cool Spanish phrases are just what you need to spice up your conversations and make them interesting.  As a rich and diverse language, Spanish has memorable words and sayings you’ll get to adore. There are many different expressions and ways to express joy, excitement, and coolness. These are often representatives of slang and culture, which […]

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Cool Spanish phrases are just what you need to spice up your conversations and make them interesting. 

As a rich and diverse language, Spanish has memorable words and sayings you’ll get to adore.

There are many different expressions and ways to express joy, excitement, and coolness. These are often representatives of slang and culture, which is basic in any language for maintaining conversational fluency.

Spark the conversation and make friends with this list of 29 cool and catchy Spanish phrases you’ll want to use anywhere you go! 

Join more than 559 million people on the planet who speak Spanish!
Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today. ➡

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Use Cool Spanish Phrases in Conversation

The variety of cool Spanish phrases you can use in your conversations is quite extensive. Spanish slang and language are always changing, so you have to use the most up-to-date words to show that you’re cool. 

Slang from Spanish-speaking countries comes in handy when you want to identify where a person is from. It’s diverse and can provide cultural insight in conversation. 

Discover The Purpose of Slang and what it does for Spanish learners. 

What was once cool maybe isn’t anymore, keeping up with colloquial trends is basic for any Spanish speaker. 

Spanish is spoken in many corners of the world. Cool sayings in Spanish are different according to region. It’s spoken by nearly 400 million people from different countries. Because Spanish is so diverse, there are a lot of ways to say something cool with a catchy phrase.

Take your vocabulary to next level coolness with this diverse list of cool Spanish sentences and catchy Spanish phrases. 

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5 Cool Spanish Phrases From Mexico

1. ¡Orale!

Orale is one of the most fun words to say in Spanish. 

Among all the cool Spanish phrases from Mexico, “orale” is used for many things. It’s similar to “let’s do it” or “right on.” Some people use it for affirmation and to express that they agree.

Cool Spanish Sentences

¡Orale, vamos juntos al concierto!
Yeah, let’s go together to the concert!

Orale, hoy sí me sorprendiste.
Yikes, you surprised me today. 

2. ¡Qué chido!

Chido is one of the most common Spanish phrases in Mexico. The phrase “qué chido” is used to describe how awesome and cool something, someone, or an event is. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Qué chido está tu tatuaje.
Your tattoo is cool.

Qué chido si vamos mañana al cine.
It’d be cool if we go to the movies tomorrow. 

3. ¡No manches!

Saying “¡No manches!” will make you sound like a local in Mexico. 

This catchy Spanish phrase is used for when people are in awe, surprised, or speechless. When you’re blown away by something cool you can show your enthusiasm and disbelief with a ¡No manches!

No manches image example

Cool Spanish Sentences

No manches que te ganaste el concurso.
I can’t believe you won the contest. 

No manches que nos vamos de viaje.
I can’t believe we’re going on a trip. 

4. ¿Qué onda?

Qué onda is a cool Spanish phrase you can use to say “what’s up” or ask “what’s going on.” Although originally Mexican, qué onda is widely understood in most Spanish-speaking countries. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

¿Qué onda? ¿Cómo te ha ido?
What’s up? How have you been?

¿Qué onda con tu nuevo trabajo?
What’s up with your new job?

Discover the interesting Evolution and Origin of ‘Que Onda’.

5. Qué padre

Qué padre is another Mexican expression that’s highly unique to the country. Although padre means “father,” it also stands for “something that’s cool without a doubt.”

Cool Spanish Sentences

¡Qué padre está tu coche!
Your car is cool. 

¡Qué padre que se van a casar!
It’s so cool that you’re getting married!

Expand your knowledge on cool Spanish phrases from Mexico with these 20 Mexican Slang Words and Best Expressions. 

5 Cool Sayings in Spanish from South America

6. Qué chévere

Qué chévere is widely used in Latin America, but Colombians often use it more than other nationalities. When something or someone is chévere, it means they’re universally cool. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Qué chévere la película que vimos ayer.
The movie we saw yesterday was cool. 

Tu nueva casa está muy chévere.
Your new house is very cool. 

7. Muy bacano

Bacan or bacano is understood in Colombia, Peru, and Chile. You can use it to describe something as “very cool.”

cool Spanish phrase Muy Bacano

Cool Spanish Sentences

Este lugar está muy bacano.
This place is very cool.

Tu hermano es muy bacan.
Your brother is very cool. 

8. Choy

Choy is used by Peruvians to indicate something is cool. People understand the meaning of this word only in this South American country. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Es choy cuando no vienes tarde.
It’s cool when you’re not late.

La playa es choy.
The beach is cool. 

9. Qué bárbaro

Bárbaro in Spanish means “barbaric” but it’s a highly positive Spanish phrase from Argentina. It’s used to describe something cool and enjoyable.

Cool Spanish Sentences

Qué bárbaro es este lugar. 
This place is cool. 

Qué bárbaro que te compraste ese teléfono.
It’s cool that you bought that phone. 

10. Algo copado

When something is copado in Argentina and Uruguay, something is cool and adored by people. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

La nueva maestra es copada.
The new teacher is cool.

El videojuego está muy copado.
The video game is very cool. 

11. Buenazo

The word buenazo is used in Ecuador and Peru. It stands for ‘really cool’ or “very good.” It’s used to describe mostly places and objects. 

cool Spanish phrase Buenazo

Cool Spanish Sentences

El restaurante está buenazo.
The restaurant is very good.

Estuvo buenazo ir al teatro.
Going to the theater was very cool. 

Take a Spanish immersion trip to South America and blend in with this guide of 12 Ecuadorian Slang Words For Everyday Use.

5 Fun Words to Say in Spanish from Spain

12. Qué guay

Qué guay means “that’s cool” in Spain. You can pretty much use it in any corner of the country. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

¡Qué guay esa camisa!
That shirt is cool!

¡Qué guay esta canción!
This song is cool!

13. Me mola

In Spain, when someone says me mola, they’re indicating they enjoy and love something or someone. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Me mola mucho tu nuevo disco.
I love your new album.

Ese lugar mola mucho.
That place is cool. 

14. Es una pasada

When Spanish people say that something es una pasada they’re expressing the coolness of it. Use it when something exceeds your expectations and you can’t get over it. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Esa nueva serie de Netflix es una pasada.
That new Netflix series is very cool.

La montaña rusa es una pasada.
The roller coaster is very cool. 

15. Vale

The word vale is used all over Spain. It’s like a wild card you can use in any casual conversation for affirmation and as a nod. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Vale, nos vemos mañana.
Ok, see you tomorrow.

Vale, suena perfecto.
Ok, sounds perfect. 

16. Qué majo

When a person is majo it means they’re pleasant to be around. Majo and maja are a lovable way of saying someone is cool. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Qué maja tu amiga.
Your friend is nice. 

Qué majo el perrito.
The puppy is cool. 

Cool Spanish phrases from Spain are highly peculiar and unique. Learn more quirky and catchy Spanish phrases with this list of 50 Spanish Idioms For Everyday Conversation. 

5 Cool Spanish Words from Central America

17. Qué chilero

Qué chilero is one of the best expressions from Guatemala. When something is chilero it means it has coolness beyond this world. Use it like a local when you talk to chapines (Guatemalans). 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Qué chilero que van a ir a la boda.
It’s cool you´re going to the wedding.

Qué chilera tu moto.
Your bike is cool. 

18. Tuanis

The expression tuanis evolved from the English words “too nice.” It’s widely used in Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, and El Salvador to express coolness. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Tu carro es bien tuanis.
Your car is cool.

Qué tuanis tus zapatos.
Your shoes are cool. 

19. Pura vida

Pura vida is one of the most memorable and cool Spanish phrases of Central America. Costa Ricans say pura vida (pure life) as often as they can. For them, the phrase alludes to a lifestyle distinguished by “all things being cool.” 

Pura Vida is one of many cool Spanish phrases

Cool Spanish Sentences

Todo pura vida hermano.
All is cool brother.

No te preocupes, todo pura vida.
Don’t worry, everything is cool. 

20. Calidad

In Guatemala the word calidad is often pronounced calidá. It stands for “quality” in English and is used to express when something is right on point and is cool. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Ese restaurante es calidad.
That restaurant is cool.

Qué calidad es tu casa.
Your house is cool. 

21. Qué chiva

Another catchy Spanish phrase from Costa Rica. Ticos (Costa Ricans) say que chiva to indicate something is nice, fun, and cool. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Qué chiva estuvo tu fiesta.
Your party was cool.

¡Qué chiva, me encanta eso!
That’s cool, I love it!

Take your Central American slang game to the next level thanks to this creative list of 11 Nicaraguan Slang Words. 

9 Catchy Spanish Phrases

22. Qué genial

The word genial in Spanish translates in English to “cool.” It’s widely understood pretty much everywhere and can be used for many scenarios. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Qué genial estuvo el juego.
The game was cool.

Qué genial esta la nueva película del hombre araña.
The new Spider-man movie is cool. 

23. Me parece estupendo

Me parece estupendo can be used for any situation you consider cool and awesome. It’s used in many Spanish-speaking countries. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Me parece estupendo si vamos mañana a cenar.
I think it’s cool if we go to dinner tomorrow.

Me parece estupenda la oferta.
I think the offer is cool. 

24. Qué buenísimo

Qué buenísimo expresses that something is really really cool. It translates in English to “really good.” You can hear this expression among Guatemalans but people also understand it in many other Latin American countries. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Esto está buenísimo.
This is really cool.

Qué buenísimo tu nuevo corte de pelo.
Your new haircut is really cool. 

25. Está súper bien

The expression está súper bien means “it is all very good,” “super cool,” or “everything is cool.” You can use it in most Spanish-speaking countries and it works for many situations. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Está súper bien este lugar.
This place is super cool.

Está súper bien tu nueva escuela.
Your new school is super cool. 

26. Nítido

The word nítido means “clean” or “tidy,” however it’s used as a nod to cool and great things. 

nítido image example

Cool Spanish Sentences

Nítido, nos vamos de viaje. 
Cool, we’re going on a trip.

Está nítido, muchas gracias.
It’s cool, thanks a lot. 

27. Estoy enganchado

The expression estoy enganchado means “I’m hooked.” Use this expression when you encounter something super cool you just can’t get enough of. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Estoy enganchado con esa canción.
That song has me hooked. 

Me tiene enganchado este chico.
This guy has me hooked. 

28. Qué increíble

Qué increíble is used for things, people, and places that are extremely cool. The English translation is “that’s incredible” and it’s a fun expression that applies to many situations that give you excitement and enthusiasm. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Qué increíble es Guatemala. 
Guatemala is incredible. 

Qué increíble tu apartamento.
Your apartment is incredible. 

29. Muy cool

The word cool is a highly popular americanism in the Spanish language. Like other English words, it’s part of commonly understood vocabulary among Spanish speakers. Saying something is muy cool in Spanish is widely understood for highlighting coolness. 

Cool Spanish Sentences

Andrea tiene una casa muy cool en la playa.
Andrea has a very cool beach house. 

Tú te vistes muy cool.
You dress very cool. 

Explore what it really takes for you to be cool with this enchanting article on What Does It Mean to Be Cool. 

Speaking Spanish Is Very Cool

Keep your brain moving and your conversations fun after taking this valuable and cool lesson to practice. 

Practice your knowledge of cool Spanish phrases with our team of certified teachers from Guatemala. Sign up for a free class and skyrocket your fluency by conversing with a native speaker. 

Our flexible programs are tailored to your needs and bring fast results. Become a Spanish speaker and share the coolness of this language everywhere you go. 

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Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

Cindy D, Parent of 3

“It’s a great way to learn Spanish, from native Spanish speakers in a 1-on-1 environment. It’s been fairly easy to schedule classes around my daughter’s other classes. The best value for us has been ordering multiple classes at a time. All the instructors have been great!”

– Cindy D, Parent of 3

- Abby

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

Erica P. Parent of 1

“HSA offers very affordable, quality, one on one classes with a native speaker. My son has greatly benefited from taking classes. We have seen his confidence increase as well as his pronunciation improve, because he learns from a native Spanish speaker. HSA has quick, personal customer service. Our family has been very pleased with our experience so far!”

– Erica P. Parent of 1

Ready to learn more Spanish vocabulary? Check these out!

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Fun Ways to Practice Spanish with Family (Even If Everyone’s at Different Levels) https://www.spanish.academy/blog/fun-ways-to-practice-spanish-with-family-even-if-everyones-at-different-levels/ https://www.spanish.academy/blog/fun-ways-to-practice-spanish-with-family-even-if-everyones-at-different-levels/#respond Thu, 15 May 2025 02:00:00 +0000 https://www.spanish.academy/?p=30420 Whether your teen speaks more Spanish than Abuela—or vice versa—these activities make practice fun and natural for everyone. If you have a family where everyone speaks a little Spanish, a lot of Spanish, or somewhere in between, you probably already know the challenges. Maybe your teen can whip up full sentences from Spanish class, while […]

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Whether your teen speaks more Spanish than Abuela—or vice versa—these activities make practice fun and natural for everyone.

If you have a family where everyone speaks a little Spanish, a lot of Spanish, or somewhere in between, you probably already know the challenges. Maybe your teen can whip up full sentences from Spanish class, while Abuela prefers to stick to a cozy mix of Spanish and English. Or maybe it is the other way around, your teen is still building skills while the older generation speaks rapidly and fluently.

It can feel a little awkward trying to practice Spanish together when skills are mismatched. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to be at the same level to have meaningful, fun Spanish practice as a family. In fact, when it is done right, it can strengthen family bonds, boost confidence, and turn learning into something everyone looks forward to.

Today, I am sharing five fun, low-pressure ways you can practice Spanish at home, no matter where everyone falls on the language spectrum.

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Research shows that learners who use a second language regularly in natural settings—like at home—are 30% more likely to retain it long-term than those who only study it in academic settings.

Practicing Spanish with family members also helps teens associate the language with warm, positive experiences rather than just tests and quizzes. This emotional connection keeps motivation strong over the years.

In short, when Spanish becomes part of family life, it sticks, and it flourishes.

Pick one meal a week—maybe Saturday breakfast or Sunday dinner—where everyone speaks as much Spanish as they can. It does not have to be perfect. Set the tone by starting with easy questions like:

  • ¿Qué quieres comer hoy?” (What do you want to eat today?)
  • ¿Cómo estuvo tu semana?” (How was your week?)

Even sprinkling in simple phrases makes a big difference. If someone gets stuck, it is okay to slip into English briefly. The goal is to make Spanish feel natural, not stressful.

If you want to make it even more engaging, let your teen plan a themed meal with a Latin American recipe. Sites like Spanish Mama offer easy, authentic recipes to try together.

Games are a fantastic equalizer because they shift the focus to fun, not perfection. Try classics like:

  • Charades: Act out Spanish verbs or nouns.
  • Pictionary: Draw Spanish vocabulary words.
  • 20 Questions: Guess the object in Spanish.

You can even create simple Spanish Bingo cards based on vocabulary your teen is learning. Everyone will be laughing, and learning, at the same time.

Set up a mason jar in a visible spot, like the kitchen counter. Every day, each family member writes one Spanish word or phrase they learned and drops it in.

At the end of the week, pull out a few and challenge each other to use them in sentences or conversations. It is a quick, low-pressure way to introduce new vocabulary and celebrate progress together.

Choose a family movie night where you watch a favorite film dubbed in Spanish or pick a Spanish-language show with English subtitles. Shows like “Go! Vive a Tu Manera” (Netflix) are teen-friendly and packed with real conversational Spanish.

According to a 2022 study, using media in the target language increases listening comprehension by up to 40% compared to traditional methods. So go ahead, make it a weekly tradition.

Need ideas? Check out lists like FluentU’s guide to Spanish-language shows to find something your family will love.

At bedtime or during family downtime, start a story in Spanish. Each person adds a few sentences before passing it to the next person. The story can be silly, serious, or completely outrageous.

Even beginners can jump in with short sentences, and more advanced speakers can expand the story further. It turns practicing vocabulary and sentence-building into a fun, shared activity.

These activities take the pressure off perfection and build something even more important: community through language. Teens learn best when they feel supported, not judged. And when family members participate together, Spanish becomes a living, breathing part of home life, not just another school subject.

Plus, these moments are often the ones that stick with them for years to come. They are not going to remember every worksheet or vocabulary list. But they will remember laughing during Spanish charades with Abuela or creating a crazy story with Mom and Dad.

It does not matter if your family has one Spanish expert and three beginners, or if everyone is learning together from scratch. Spanish can—and should—be something that brings you closer as a family.

By making Spanish practice a natural part of family time, you will be giving your teen the gift of confidence, connection, and cultural pride.

If you are looking for even more ways to help your teen strengthen their Spanish while having fun, check out our 1-on-1 Spanish classes, designed specifically for busy high schoolers who want real-world skills.

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Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

- Melanie

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

- Abby

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

- Karie Ann, Parent of 3

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more free Homeschooling resources for your kids? Check these out!

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10 Simple Spanish Words Your Preschooler Can Learn This Week https://www.spanish.academy/blog/ten-simple-spanish-words-your-preschooler-can-learn-this-week/ https://www.spanish.academy/blog/ten-simple-spanish-words-your-preschooler-can-learn-this-week/#respond Wed, 23 Apr 2025 15:05:38 +0000 https://www.spanish.academy/?p=30390 Help your little one feel proud and confident! Start with these fun, everyday Spanish words and watch them shine. One of the most joyful parts of parenting a preschooler is watching them discover new things. And there’s something especially heartwarming about hearing your child say a new word in Spanish, whether it’s hola at breakfast […]

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Help your little one feel proud and confident! Start with these fun, everyday Spanish words and watch them shine.

One of the most joyful parts of parenting a preschooler is watching them discover new things. And there’s something especially heartwarming about hearing your child say a new word in Spanish, whether it’s hola at breakfast or gracias after you hand them a snack.

If your child already knows a few Spanish words, you might be wondering, “What’s the next step?” or “How can I keep the momentum going?”

Good news: you don’t need a perfect accent or a teaching background to help your little one learn. Just a few high-frequency Spanish words can build confidence, spark curiosity, and even lay the foundation for fluency. And the best part? You’ll start seeing results this week.

At the end of this article, you’ll get access to a free printable PDF of Spanish Starter Flashcards for Preschoolers, 20 fun, illustrated words that make learning visual, interactive, and stress-free.

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Children between the ages of 3 and 5 are in a prime stage for language development. According to the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, early childhood is when the brain is most adaptable to learning languages. This means your preschooler can soak up vocabulary effortlessly, especially when it’s introduced in fun, bite-sized ways.

Even learning just 5 to 10 new Spanish words per week can help your child feel a growing sense of mastery. It also encourages them to start connecting Spanish with daily routines, whether at home, in class, or during paired lessons with a friend.

So, if your child is already enrolled in a Spanish class or you’re considering it, practicing these words outside of class helps reinforce what they learn and makes the experience more meaningful.

Parents often ask if starting this early really makes a difference. The answer is a resounding yes. Research carried out by the University of California found that early exposure to a second language can enhance executive function skills like memory, attention, and problem-solving.

Starting with just a few Spanish words now can help your child not only build vocabulary but also sharpen cognitive abilities that serve them in all areas of development. And if you’re looking for a structured yet playful way to keep the learning going, paired Spanish classes for preschoolers are a fantastic next step. Your child gets a blend of peer interaction and personal attention that supports both language and social growth.

To learn more about how our classes work, click here to book a free trial class.

Here are 10 beginner-friendly Spanish words that are perfect for preschoolers.

These words are easy to pronounce, useful in everyday life, and naturally invite repetition, which is key for memorization.

  1. Hola – Hello
    Great for greetings and introducing polite habits.
  2. Adiós – Goodbye
    Reinforces routines when saying goodbye to family, friends, or even toys at bedtime.
  3. Gracias – Thank you
    One of the most essential words in any language, and easy for preschoolers to remember.
  4. Por favor – Please
    Pairs beautifully with gracias and builds early social-emotional skills.
  5. Agua – Water
    Kids ask for drinks constantly. Now, they can do it in Spanish.
  6. Pan – Bread
    Common and easy to connect to meals or snack time.
  7. Zapato – Shoe
    Great for routines like getting dressed—“Where’s your zapato?”
  8. Perro – Dog
    If your child loves animals, they’ll love learning this one.
  9. Mano – Hand
    Fun to pair with activities like hand-washing or games like “Dame la mano” (give me your hand).
  10. Rojo – Red
    The perfect starter color, especially if your child enjoys art or playing with blocks.

You can introduce these words during storytime, while drawing together, or by labeling everyday objects.

Keep it light and playful. Preschoolers retain more when they associate learning with fun.

If you’re excited to bring Spanish into your child’s daily routine, we’ve made it even easier. Download our free printable: Spanish Starter Flashcards for Preschoolers.

This colorful set includes the 10 words listed above, plus 10 more, designed specifically for ages 3 to 5. It’s perfect for fridge games, storytime prompts, or adding a little Spanish flair to your morning routine.

To get your free copy, click here to download the PDF. (Coming Soon!)

Learning Spanish doesn’t have to start with textbooks or structured drills. It can begin with a few simple, joyful words spoken between you and your child during the day. When your preschooler says “gracias” without being prompted, you’ll know this journey is already paying off.

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Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

- Melanie

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

- Abby

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

- Karie Ann, Parent of 3

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more free Spanish resources for your kids? Check these out!

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The 25 Most Useful Spanish Phrases You Need to Learn Today https://www.spanish.academy/blog/the-most-useful-spanish-phrases-you-need/ https://www.spanish.academy/blog/the-most-useful-spanish-phrases-you-need/#respond Wed, 02 Apr 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.spanish.academy/?p=30301 Have you ever opened a Spanish textbook or language app and felt instantly overwhelmed? With thousands of words and grammar rules, it can feel impossible to know where to start. Here’s the good news: You don’t need to know every word in Spanish to start speaking today. In fact, research shows that the most commonly […]

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Have you ever opened a Spanish textbook or language app and felt instantly overwhelmed? With thousands of words and grammar rules, it can feel impossible to know where to start. Here’s the good news: You don’t need to know every word in Spanish to start speaking today.

In fact, research shows that the most commonly used 100 words make up about 50% of spoken Spanish. That means learning just a handful of useful phrases will get you to speak and understand real conversations much faster than memorizing endless vocabulary lists.

By the end of this post, you’ll have 25 must-know Spanish phrases that you can use right away, plus a FREE Printable Spanish Phrasebook to help you practice.

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Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today. ➡

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Learning a language doesn’t mean memorizing a dictionary.

The fastest way to start speaking Spanish is to learn high-frequency phrases you’ll hear and use in real life.

  • It builds confidence. Instead of worrying about grammar, you can jump right into conversations.
  • You’ll sound more natural. Native speakers don’t talk like textbooks. Learning real-life phrases makes it easier to communicate naturally.

Now, let’s go through the essential Spanish phrases that will help you start speaking today.

1. Basic Greetings and Introductions

These phrases will help you start any conversation with confidence.

  • Hola – Hello
  • Buenos días – Good morning
  • Buenas tardes – Good afternoon
  • Buenas noches – Good evening/good night
  • ¿Cómo estás? – How are you?
  • Me llamo… – My name is…
  • Mucho gusto – Nice to meet you
  • ¿De dónde eres? – Where are you from?
  • Soy de… – I’m from…

2. Polite Expressions

If you want to sound polite in Spanish, these phrases will be useful.

  • Por favor – Please
  • Gracias – Thank you
  • De nada – You’re welcome
  • Lo siento – I’m sorry
  • Disculpe – Excuse me

3. Essential Travel and Survival Phrases

These will be helpful when traveling or in everyday interactions.

  • ¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
  • ¿Dónde está el baño? – Where is the bathroom?
  • Quisiera… – I would like…
  • La cuenta, por favor. – The check, please.
  • No entiendo. – I don’t understand.
  • ¿Puedes repetirlo, por favor? – Can you repeat that, please?

4. Conversation Starters and Small Talk

These phrases will help you engage in basic conversations.

  • ¿Qué tal? – How’s it going?
  • ¿Qué haces? – What do you do? / What are you doing?
  • ¿Te gusta…? – Do you like…?
  • Me gusta… – I like…
  • ¡Hasta luego! – See you later!

The best way to remember these phrases is to use them daily. Here are some quick tips:

  • Change your phone’s voice assistant (Siri, Google Assistant) to Spanish and practice with it.
  • Label items in your home with sticky notes (for example, “puerta” for door, “mesa” for table).
  • Use Spanish when ordering food at a restaurant that serves Latin American or Spanish cuisine.
  • Practice with a tutor in real conversations. (Try Homeschool Spanish Academy for one-on-one lessons.)

To make learning these phrases even easier, we’ve created a FREE Printable Spanish Phrasebook for Beginners.

Inside, you’ll find:

  • A beautifully designed PDF with must-know phrases and pronunciation tips.
  • Fill-in-the-blank exercises to help you build sentences.
  • A printable cheat sheet you can carry with you for quick reference.

Download your free phrasebook here. (Coming Soon)

Learning Spanish doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With these 25 key phrases, you can start speaking, connecting, and building confidence.

What’s the first Spanish phrase you’re going to use today? Share in the comments below.

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Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

- Melanie

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

- Abby

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

- Karie Ann, Parent of 3

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want more free Spanish fun content? Check these out!

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Top 20 Guatemalan Words and Slang Expressions You Should Know https://www.spanish.academy/blog/top-20-guatemalan-words-and-slang-expressions-you-should-know/ https://www.spanish.academy/blog/top-20-guatemalan-words-and-slang-expressions-you-should-know/#respond Thu, 02 Jan 2025 15:43:09 +0000 https://www.spanish.academy/?p=6714 There are tons of fun Guatemalan words to learn in Spanish. As a Guatemalan, I know and use them all the time.  Guatemala is full of wonder and magic, and its language is alive in its people and traditions.  Now, let’s take a deep dive into Guatemalan words and culture. It’s a fun way to […]

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There are tons of fun Guatemalan words to learn in Spanish. As a Guatemalan, I know and use them all the time. 

Guatemala is full of wonder and magic, and its language is alive in its people and traditions. 

Now, let’s take a deep dive into Guatemalan words and culture. It’s a fun way to get to know Guatemala better so that you can come to visit and fit right in.

Join more than 559 million people on the planet who speak Spanish!
Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today. ➡

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What Makes Guatemala Special

The former territory of the Maya, Guatemala is a Central American gem full of natural beauty and touristic attractions. According to the UNWTO, (the United Nations’ world tourism organization), the country received 2.56 million international tourists in 2019.

The local people of Guatemala are sweet and welcoming. They actually go out of their way to help you out, especially if they see that you’re not from here. They love tourists and enjoy sharing what they know with those who are curious.

Guatemala’s colorful and elaborate handwoven textiles are famous worldwide. They come in different shapes and colors, and you can find them throughout the country. The different villages have unique patterns and colors, and they all catch your eye. The colonial architecture in Antigua Guatemala makes it a picturesque town full of wonder.  

Ancient Mayan civilization is at Guatemala’s core. You can visit ruins from the Mayan civilization, like Tikal (the most famous tourist site in the country). It’s astonishing what they were capable of achieving with limited resources. Many believe they created their own astrology and were advanced astronomers, engineers, and architects. Mayan teachings and rituals live on to this day in Guatemala.

It might seem exotic and remote but Guatemala isn’t far from North America. It’s easy to fly to from the U.S. or Canada.

Guatemalan words

What is Slang?

According to dictionary.com, “slang is a very informal usage in vocabulary and idiom that is characteristically more metaphorical, playful, elliptical, vivid, and ephemeral than ordinary language.” 

It’s common to find slang in any country. Today, we’ll learn 20 Guatemalan words to expand your Spanish slang vocabulary. 

20 Guatemalan Words You Should Know

These Guatemalan words and slang will not only make you sound cool but also help you get around!

1. Chapín / Chapina

This is the unofficial Spanish word for a person from Guatemala. Guatemalteco is the official term, but people in Guatemala consider themselves chapines. Chapín is a male from Guatemala, and chapina is a female.

Soy chapina y estoy orgullosa de ello.
I’m a Guatemalan and proud of it.

2. ¡Aguas!

If you’re thinking that agua is water, you’re right. But when it comes to Guatemalan words and slang, it means “look out!” This term is used throughout Central America and Mexico.

¡Aguas con el tráfico! Es peligroso manejar tan rápido.
Careful with traffic! It’s dangerous to drive so fast.

3. Pisto

This is slang for money. When someone says they’re broke, they usually refer to it as pisto. It refers to cash and a friend may ask to borrow pisto when they don’t have enough.

No tengo pisto hasta que me paguen.
I don’t have any cash until I get paid.

4. Clavo

This is a nail, but when it comes to Guatemalan words, it is commonly used to declare that you have a serious problem. You’ll hear it in different contexts and scenarios, as the expression applies to any kind of problem.

Tengo un gran clavo con mi familia.
I have a big problem with my family. 

5. Burro / burra

This is a casual way to tell someone that they’re dumb but just joking around. It’s not really an insult but more a term of endearment. 

No seas burra, no cometiste un error.
Don’t be dumb, you didn’t make a mistake. 

6. Boquitas

This is a Guatemalan word for snack. The literal translation is small mouth but it’s all about eating something light before lunch or dinner. I use this one all the time, and I love boquitas! They’re just like tapas in Spain; small portions but delicious. 

Podemos comer unas boquitas mientras vemos Netflix.
We can eat some snacks while we watch Netflix. 

Guatemalan words

7. Bochinche

This expression refers to chaos or disorder caused by crowds. It’s usually noisy and can even be a strike or a riot. A bochinche is a group of people making noise for a reason or cause. 

Cuando salí de mi casa, había un bochinche en la calle.
When I left home, there was a riot in the streets. 

8. Canche

Guatemalans are expressive, and they love to give people nicknames. It’s common for a nickname to be based on your appearance. Canche means blonde and it’s a common nickname and term of endearment used in Guatemala. 

Como me gusta ese canche.
I really like that blonde guy. 

9. Casaca

This is one of my favorite Guatemalan words. It involves charming someone you like, even if you have to lie a little. When someone really wants to get close to you and get your attention, they use casaca

La casaca que le dijo funcionó y ahora son novios.
The charm he used on her worked, and now they’re dating. 

10. Chilero/a

Of all the Guatemalan words that we’ve learned, this is the spiciest. It is derived from chile which is a hot pepper in Guatemala and you use it to mean “awesome!” 

¡Que chilera tu bolsa!
Your purse is awesome!

11. Chispudo/a

Chispa means spark. So, if someone calls you chispudo or chispuda, it means you have a spark and you’re sharp. It’s definitely a compliment. 

Maria es chispuda y sabe todas las respuestas.
Maria is sharp and knows all the answers. 

12. Chivas

This term is used to refer to all your things. It’s informal and used in a colloquial way. It’s used as “stuff.”

Dejaste tus chivas en mi carro.
You left your stuff in my car.

13. Chucho/a

This word refers to a stray dog. But it can also be used as an adjective for someone who is greedy and cheap. 

Mi papá es un chucho y nunca me da dinero.
My dad is cheap and never gives me money. 

14. Camioneta

The chicken buses in Guatemala are epic. They are old school buses that have been remodeled into public buses. These are known as camionetas and riding one is quite an experience. 

Tuve que tomar la camioneta que va a la ciudad.
I had to take the chicken bus that goes to the city. 

Guatemalan words

15. Patojo/a

This word means kid or child. It’s said in a loving and fun way. 

Hay unos patojos jugando al fútbol en la calle.
There are some kids playing soccer on the street.

16. Peluche

It means to relax and do absolutely nothing. Peluche is a polite way to say that you’ve been completely unproductive. 

Esta semana estoy muy cansada y he estado de peluche.
This week I’ve been exhausted so I’ve just rested. 

17. ¡Sanigua!

It means “wow!” You can use it to encourage someone when they do something cool or to make fun of them because they’re trying to be cool. 

¡Sanigua! ¿Es nueva esa falta? Me gusta

Wow! Is that skirt new? I like it. 

18. ¡Sho!

I had to include this one because it’s so common to hear and use in Guatemala. I must admit, I use it. It’s a colloquial way to say “be quiet!”, “listen here!”, or even “shut up!” 

It’s not really rude because you only use it with close friends. Be careful not to use this with elders or authority figures, as it wouldn’t be appropriate. 

¡Sho! Necesito silencio para concentrarme.
Hey, listen here, I need silence to concentrate. 

19. Shute

When someone is extremely nosy and they want to know everything about everyone, they are shutes. It’s a playful way to call out on someone who’s intruding in your life. 

No seas shute, mi vida privada es privada.
Don’t be nosy, my private life is private. 

20. Caite

This is slang for an extremely comfortable sandal-like shoe. It’s also what many indigenous people wear. 

El niño llevaba puestos sus caites nuevos.
The boy was wearing his new casual sandals. 

Why Learn Slang?

First of all, Spanish is spoken by over 572 million people, and it’s the official language of more than 20 countries. Every country has its own slang. 

Learning a language has challenges, and learning the slang can be even more challenging. But it’s also a fun and interesting way to learn more about the language and culture.

Adding Guatemalan words to your vocabulary will make your Spanish richer. What other slang words do you know and like to use? Let us know in a comment. 

And if you’re looking to further your Spanish speaking skills, sign up for a free class to talk with one of our native-speaking teachers from Guatemala today and immerse yourself in the beauty of Spanish. 

Sign up for a free trial class at Homeschool Spanish Academy and start using pero and sino in Spanish in real conversations! Practice Spanish in a 1-to-1 class with one of our friendly and professional teachers from Guatemala. Check out our affordable pricing and flexible programs!

certified teachers
free Spanish class button

Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

- Melanie

“It’s great being able to interact with native speaking people and having a conversation with them not just doing all the work on paper. It’s also an amazing opportunity to speak with native Spanish-speaking people without having to travel to a native Spanish-speaking country.”

– Melanie

- Abby

“Getting to know wonderful teachers who care about me and my growth in language and education. Evelyn Gomez and Erick Cacao are two of the most extraordinary people I have ever met, and talking with them in Spanish at the beginning of classes is always so fulfilling and greatly contributes to my happiness, joy, and wellbeing.”

– Abby

- Karie Ann, Parent of 3

“I love that my children have the opportunity to speak with a live person. They get to practice Spanish in a 1-1 setting while improve their speaking, writing and reading skills during their lessons. HSA is a great way to learn Spanish for all ages! My children are 6, 9 and 11. My oldest two (9 and 11) have been taking classes with HSA for almost 2 years now. They love seeing their teacher each week. They understand the importance of learning several languages. I’ve seen them grow and learn with HSA. I’m excited to see how they will improve the more classes they take. I highly recommend them. You can’t bet learning and speaking with a live teacher. I’ve tried other programs. It’s just not as motivating.”

Karie Ann, Parent of 3

Want to learn more Spanish vocabulary? Check out our latest posts!

The post Top 20 Guatemalan Words and Slang Expressions You Should Know appeared first on Homeschool Spanish Academy.

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Bien vs Bueno: How Good is Your Spanish? https://www.spanish.academy/blog/bien-vs-bueno-how-good-is-your-spanish/ https://www.spanish.academy/blog/bien-vs-bueno-how-good-is-your-spanish/#respond Thu, 07 Nov 2024 15:45:27 +0000 https://www.spanish.academy/?p=6819 Bien vs bueno is almost as a famous dilemma as “to be or not to be.” However, it’s much less complex on a philosophical level.  Simply by grasping a few elementary grammar concepts and remembering basic situations when you use one or the other, using bien vs bueno will be a piece of cake. Today, […]

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Bien vs bueno is almost as a famous dilemma as “to be or not to be.” However, it’s much less complex on a philosophical level. 

Simply by grasping a few elementary grammar concepts and remembering basic situations when you use one or the other, using bien vs bueno will be a piece of cake.

Today, we’ll show you when to use bien and when to use bueno. Let’s explore guidelines and examples to help you fully comprehend the infamous opposition between bien vs bueno.

Ready to go?

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Grammatical Differences Between Bien, Buen, and Bueno

Learners tend to confuse these words because they look and sound similar and have pretty similar meanings. However, bien vs bueno is easy to comprehend if we descend to the grammatical level. 

English speakers have issues with the distinction between these words because since the 19th century, English grammar experts have been arguing on when you should use “good” and when “well” (Do you feel good or do you feel well?). 

Just as English learners struggle with “good vs well,” Spanish learners struggle with bien vs bueno. That’s why we should forget about translating bien, buen, and bueno, and try to understand the grammatical differences. 

First of all, buen and bueno are two forms of the same word. Buen is the apocopic (missing the final syllable) form of bueno, and means “good” or “fine.” 

Bien is an adverb. Buen/bueno is an adjective. If you remember this simple rule, bien vs bueno will become much easier to understand. Have a look at the article about all the 8 Parts of Speech if you need to refresh your memory. 

immersion bien vs bueno

For the purpose of this post, it’s enough to remember that adverbs answer the questions “How?” and “To what extent?”. They can describe:

  1. A verb
  2. An adverb
  3. An adjective

1. Bien Describing a Verb

Canto bien en español.

I sing well in Spanish.

Here, bien describes the verb canto. I sing how? Well.

2. Bien Describing an Adjective

Tu canción es bien pegajosa.

Your song is very catchy.

Bien is an adverb telling us more about the adjective pegajosa. Catchy to what extent? Very catchy.

3. Bien Describing Another Adverb

Hablas bien rápido.
You speak very fast.

In this example, bien is an adverb describing another adverb rápido. Fast to what extent? Very fast.

Adjectives answer the question “What kind?” and describe nouns, including people, animals, ideas, and objects.

El albúm es muy bueno.
The album is very good.

In this sentence, we are describing an object, the album. What is good? The album. 

Remember that Spanish adjectives need to agree in gender and number with the noun they are describing: bueno, buena, buenos, buenas. You need to take into consideration whether the noun is feminine or masculine and singular or plural.

Tu español es bueno.
Your Spanish is good. (masculine, singular)

Tu pronunciación es buena.
Your pronunciation is good. (feminine, singular)

Los chicos son buenos.
The boys are good. (masculine, plural)

Las chicas son muy buenas.
The girls are very good. (feminine, plural)

Do you understand now why translating in your mind from English to Spanish won’t work? All the above forms of bueno can translate to “good”.

As we mentioned before, buen and bueno are actually the same word, and they are both used to describe singular masculine nouns. The difference is where you’ll put them in the sentence. Bueno goes after the noun and buen before. Pretty straightforward, isn’t it?

Es un chico bueno.

Es un buen chico.

Both of which translate to “He is a good/nice boy.”

You might still not be a big fan of grammar terms, and thinking about parts of speech every time you speak can be a bit tiresome, so we’ve made the dilemma bien vs bueno even simpler for you.

Uses of bien

In what situations can you use bien? Check out these 6 common ways to use the word bien.

When you hear the common question, ¿cómo estás?, you will answer bien. Bien is a perfect response to express how you are doing and how you feel. It can describe your health or simply how you are in a particular situation.

-¡Hola! ¿cómo te va? 
-Muy bien, gracias.

-Hi! How are you doing?
-Very well, thank you.

No me siento muy bien, creo que comí algo malo.
I don’t feel very well. I think I’ve eaten something bad.

You can always add bien before an adjective and you’ll make it sound stronger. It translates to “very” or “pretty” in these cases. This use of bien is more common in South America, but you can use it in Spain, too. 

El libro es bien interesante.
The book is very interesting.

You can even use bien to emphasize bueno!

Este pastel es bien bueno.
The cake is very good.

If you want to praise somebody because they are doing something well, you use bien and not bueno.

¡Qué bien hablas español!
How well you speak Spanish!

¡Lo has hecho muy bien!
You have done it very well!

You can also use bien to talk about technological devices and other things working or not.

Mi tablet no funciona muy bien.
My tablet is not working properly.

Skype no está bien, no se oye nada.
Skype is not working well, you can’t hear anything.

In informal situations where you feel like answering “okay,” you can simply say está bien or bien.

-Vamos al cine, ¿va?
-Bien

-Let’s go to the movies, okay?
-Okay.

-Nos vemos en la entrada.
-Está bien.

-See you at the door.
-Okay.

When your friend has done something really well and you just want to shout ¡Bravo!, you can shout ¡Bien! in Spanish.

¡Bien! ¡Felicidades!
Bravo! Congratulations!

¡Bien! ¡Ganamos!
Bravo! We won!

Uses of buen/bueno

You surely remember that buen/bueno is an adjective, but let’s give you some more specific hints on how to use it.

IN my family, we just got a puppy, and I can’t even count how many times a day we are saying ¡buen chico!. But you can obviously use it with humans, too. It’s just the opposite of naughty.

Mi hija es muy buena, siempre hace todas las tareas.
My daughter is very good, she always does all her homework.

Si no has sido bueno este año, el Santa no te traerá nada.
If you haven’t been good this year, Santa Claus will not bring you anything.

When a person is very good at their role you’ll also use buen/bueno.

Juan es un buen profesor.
Juan is a good teacher.

Elena es una buena reina.
Elena is a good queen.

If something is well-made you can use bueno in Spanish.

¡Qué buen coche tiene Pedro!
What a good car Pedro has!

Anything that does you good is bueno, anything that doesn’t is not bueno.

Correr es bueno.
Running is good.

Comer dulces todos los días no es bueno.
Eating sweets every day is not good.

Things can also be good or bad depending on whether we consider them useful or not.

Es una buena bicicleta.
It’s a good bike.

When you eat a delicious taco, the first words that come to your mind are ¡Qué bueno está esto!

Esta quesadilla está muy buena.
This quesadilla is very good.

Be careful with this expression, as it may sound too informal in most situations. It could be translated as “hot” rather than attractive.”

Este chico está muy bueno.
This guy is very attractive.

Wait, wait. Haven’t I just told you that you use bien when you want to say “OK”? Well, this is the only situation when you can use one or the other and you will always be correct. If you are unsure whether to use bien vs bueno, either is fine.

-Vamos al cine, ¿va?
-Bueno

Let’s go to the movies, okay?
-Okay.

-Nos vemos en la entrada.
-Bueno. Ahí estaré.

-See you at the door.
-Okay. I’ll be there.

In some Latin American countries, you’ll hear people say bueno instead of dígame when answering a phone.

-Ring, ring
-¿Bueno?

-Ring, ring
-Speaking

Practice Time!

That was quite a lot to take in one sitting, but bien vs bueno is an extense topic. Now, you know the grammar rules and situations when you can use one word or the other. Bien vs bueno seems to have no more secrets but you’re surely eager to try them out for yourself. Sign up for a free class to have 1-on-1, real-time conversations in Spanish with our friendly native-speaking teachers. This way, you will know if you speak bien and how bueno is your Spanish.

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Join one of the 40,000 classes that we teach each month and you can experience results like these

Sharon K, Parent of 3

“This is the best way for your kid to learn Spanish. It’s one-on-one, taught by native Spanish speakers, and uses a curriculum.”

– Sharon K, Parent of 3

Cindy D, Parent of 3

“It’s a great way to learn Spanish, from native Spanish speakers in a 1-on-1 environment. It’s been fairly easy to schedule classes around my daughter’s other classes. The best value for us has been ordering multiple classes at a time. All the instructors have been great!”

– Cindy D, Parent of 3

Erica P. Parent of 1

“HSA offers very affordable, quality, one on one classes with a native speaker. My son has greatly benefited from taking classes. We have seen his confidence increase as well as his pronunciation improve, because he learns from a native Spanish speaker. HSA has quick, personal customer service. Our family has been very pleased with our experience so far!”

– Erica P. Parent of 1

Want to learn more Spanish vocabulary? Check out our latest posts!

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