'Hablar' vs. 'Decir'

To say you speak a language, you just use 'hablar' followed by the language name. No extra words are needed. For example, 'Hablo español.'

Speaking Languages

Use 'hablar con' to mean 'to talk with' someone, suggesting a two-way conversation. 'Hablar a' means 'to talk to' someone and can feel more one-sided.

'Hablar con' vs. 'Hablar a'

Extremely common. This is one of the first and most important verbs you'll learn in Spanish.

Forgetting the Preposition

To talk 'about' something, you must use the little word 'de' (or 'sobre') after 'hablar'. You can't just say 'Hablamos la película'.

The Magic Word: 'de'

Just as common as the main meaning. You'll use this constantly to discuss topics.

When you address someone specific, you often attach 'le' (for one person) or 'les' (for multiple people) to 'hablar'. For example, 'Voy a hablarle al gerente' (I'm going to speak to the manager).

Adding 'le' and 'les'

Less common than the other meanings, used mostly in formal or professional situations.

Learn the complete meaning of the Spanish verb 'hablar'. See full conjugations, examples for 'to speak', 'to talk about', and 'to address', and learn common mistakes.

hablar

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

preterite

imperfect

future

conditional

subjunctive

present

imperfect

imperative

affirmative

negative

Practice Conjugations