A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Could you repeat that" in Spanish
Politely ask someone to repeat themselves in Spanish when you didn't catch what they said.
¿Podrías repetirlo, por favor?
poh-DREE-ahs reh-peh-TEER-loh, pohr fah-VOHRneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this when you miss something someone said in a conversation. It's a polite way to get them to say it again, whether in a shop, at a restaurant, or talking with friends.
Alternatives
- ¿Puedes repetirlo?This is slightly more casual, good for friends or people your age.
- ¿Perdón?A very common and quick way to signal you didn't hear, often used when you need a repeat.
- ¿Cómo dice?Often used when speaking to someone older or in a more formal context, especially in some regions.
Ways to get it wrong
Using 'Repetir' too directly
Just saying 'Repite' can sound like an order; adding 'podrías' or 'puedes' softens it.
Forgetting 'lo'
The 'lo' refers to 'it' (what they said), so it's essential for clarity.
A small cultural note
Adding 'por favor' is always a good idea to maintain politeness, especially when asking for a repeat.
Frequently asked
What's the difference between 'podrías' and 'puedes'?
'Podrías' is the conditional tense, making it a bit more hypothetical and polite. 'Puedes' is the present tense, more direct but still common.
When should I use 'por favor'?
Always use 'por favor' when making a request, even a simple one like asking someone to repeat themselves. It shows good manners.
Can I just say 'Repite'?
While understandable, 'Repite' is an imperative command and can sound abrupt or demanding. It's better to use 'podrías' or 'puedes' for politeness.
