Learn the most common Spanish phrases with this interactive dictation
When you learn Spanish, you study grammar and memorize vocabulary. But there is something that makes the real difference between speaking correctly and speaking naturally: knowing the expressions that Spanish speakers use every day without thinking.
Phrases like “no hay problema”, “nos vemos” or “lo más pronto posible” are not hard to understand — but they need practice before they come out spontaneously in a real conversation. If you’ve heard them before but still hesitate when using them, this exercise is for you.
In this interactive dictation you will practice 15 everyday Spanish expressions: listen to each phrase and write the missing words. It’s an effective way to lock vocabulary into your memory and improve your Spanish listening comprehension at the same time.
How does the dictation work?
- Listen to each phrase carefully
- Write the missing words in the gaps
- If you need help, use the HELP button
- On a computer you can also click the letters shown below each phrase
What do these phrases mean and when do you use them?
Now that you’ve practiced, here’s a quick guide to each phrase with real examples:
To say goodbye
¡Cuídate! — A warm, informal farewell. Used with friends and family.
“Okay, I’m off. ¡Cuídate mucho!”
Nos vemos — Implies you’ll see each other again. Works in any context.
“We have a meeting tomorrow. ¡Nos vemos!”
To wish someone luck
¡Que tengas suerte! — Perfect before an exam, interview or big moment.
“I know you’re nervous. ¡Que tengas suerte!”
To talk about time
Es muy tarde — The hour is late or a deadline is close.
“It’s two in the morning. Es muy tarde to call.”
Es demasiado tarde — The right moment has already passed.
“I wanted to apologize, but maybe ya es demasiado tarde.”
Lo más pronto posible — “As soon as possible.” Very common in professional contexts.
“I need that report lo más pronto posible.”
To express clarity or agreement
Está claro — Confirms something is understood or obvious.
“Do you understand the instructions? — Sí, está claro.”
Está clarísimo — The emphatic version. Absolutely crystal clear.
“The answer is clarísima — there’s no doubt.”
To react
No hay problema — A generous response when someone asks for something or apologizes.
“Do you mind if I’m late? — No hay problema.”
No entiendo — Essential for asking someone to repeat or explain.
“Perdona, no entiendo. Can you say that more slowly?”
Tengo una idea — To propose something in a conversation or meeting.
“Wait, tengo una idea. What if we do it the other way around?”
To apologize
Lo siento — A sincere apology for everyday situations.
“Lo siento, I’m running late.”
Lo siento mucho — More intense, for situations that cause real upset.
“Lo siento mucho. I didn’t know it would affect you like that.”
Formal vs. informal Spanish: when do you switch?
Two of the phrases in this exercise exist in two versions: informal (tú) and formal (usted). Which one to use depends on who you’re talking to:
| Situation | Informal (tú) | Formal (usted) |
|---|---|---|
| A friend, family member | No te preocupes | — |
| A client, boss, older person | — | No se preocupe |
In Spanish, the use of tú and usted varies widely by country and context. In Spain, usted is mainly reserved for very formal situations or older people. In many Latin American countries, usted is used more frequently, even between acquaintances. The Real Academia Española and the Instituto Cervantes have more information on this topic if you’d like to explore further.
Keep practicing Spanish
If you enjoyed this exercise, here are more activities to keep improving:
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