callar
“callar” means “to be silent” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to be silent, to shut up
Also: to fall silent
📝 In Action
Cuando entró la profesora, todos se callaron.
A2When the teacher entered, everyone fell silent (shut up).
¡Cállate! No quiero oír más excusas.
A1Shut up! I don't want to hear any more excuses.
Ella calló y esperó a que yo hablara.
B1She went silent and waited for me to speak.
to silence, to keep quiet about
Also: to hush
📝 In Action
El presentador calló a la audiencia con un gesto.
B1The host silenced the audience with a gesture.
Prometió callar la verdad para proteger a su familia.
B2He promised to keep quiet about the truth to protect his family.
Intentó callar mis argumentos, pero no pudo.
C1He tried to silence my arguments, but he couldn't.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: callar
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'callar' in its reflexive form (callarse)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Latin verb *calare*, which meant 'to drop, let down, or cease.' This evolved into the idea of ceasing speech or ceasing noise.
First recorded: Medieval Latin period
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'callarse' and 'estar callado'?
'Callarse' describes the action of becoming silent (like 'falling silent'). 'Estar callado' describes the state of being quiet or reserved (like 'being quiet'). Example: 'Se calló (action), y ahora está callado (state).'
Is '¡Cállate!' rude?
Yes, '¡Cállate!' is the strongest and most direct command, often considered rude, especially if used with 'usted' (¡Cállese!). It's best reserved for informal situations or when you are genuinely frustrated. Use 'Silencio, por favor' for politeness.