A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "After you" in Spanish
Politely offer someone else the right of way in Spanish with 'Pase usted'.
Pase usted
PAH-seh oo-STEDformal
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this when you want to let someone go ahead of you, like entering a doorway, stepping onto an elevator, or taking a seat. It's a clear signal of courtesy.
Alternatives
- PaseSlightly less formal, good for people you know a little.
- AdelanteMore general invitation to proceed, can also mean 'go ahead'.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'pase' with 'paso'
'Pase' means 'pass' or 'go', while 'paso' means 'step'.
Using 'tú' forms incorrectly
Avoid 'pasa tú' as it's too informal and grammatically awkward for this context.
A small cultural note
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, showing deference and offering the right of way is a very important aspect of politeness, especially towards elders or those in positions of respect.
Frequently asked
When should I use Pase usted vs Adelante?
'Pase usted' is specifically for letting someone go first. 'Adelante' is broader and can mean 'go ahead' in a more general sense, like encouraging someone to start speaking.
Is Pase usted always formal?
Yes, 'Pase usted' uses the formal 'usted' conjugation, making it inherently formal and respectful.
What if I know the person well?
If you know the person well and are on informal terms, you might use 'Pasa' or simply 'Adelante', but 'Pase usted' is never wrong and always polite.
