A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I don't speak spanish, do you speak english" in Spanish
Can't speak Spanish? Ask if they speak English with this essential phrase for travelers.
No hablo español, ¿habla inglés?
noh AH-bloh es-pah-NYOL, AH-blah een-GLAYSneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this when you've tried to communicate in Spanish and it's clear you're not understood. It's perfect for asking for help from a stranger, like a hotel clerk or a police officer.
Alternatives
- No hablo español, ¿hablás inglés?Use this if you're speaking to someone younger or a peer.
- No sé español, ¿sabe inglés?This uses 'saber' (to know) instead of 'hablar' (to speak), and is also very common.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'hablar' and 'saber'
While 'saber' means 'to know', 'hablar' is the correct verb for 'to speak' a language.
Pronouncing 'hablo'
The 'h' is silent; it's pronounced 'AH-bloh', not 'HAH-bloh'.
A small cultural note
In many Spanish-speaking countries, people are accustomed to tourists not speaking Spanish and will often try to help if they can speak English.
Frequently asked
What if they don't speak English either?
You might need to resort to gestures, pointing, or using a translation app. Having key phrases written down can also be helpful.
Is 'habla' or 'hablas' more common?
'Habla' is the formal 'you' (usted) and 'hablas' is the informal 'you' (tú). Use 'habla' unless you're sure the context is casual.
How do I say 'I speak a little Spanish'?
You can say 'Hablo un poco de español.' This shows you're trying and might encourage them to speak slower.
