I need to go
in SpanishTengo que irme
/TEN-goh keh EER-meh/
This is the most standard and versatile way to say you need to leave. It works in almost any situation, from a casual lunch to a professional meeting.
Using 'Tengo que irme' is the perfect way to politely end a conversation and head out.
💬Other Ways to Say It
Me tengo que ir
/meh TEN-goh keh EER/
This is just a slightly different word order of the primary translation.
Me retiro
/meh reh-TEE-roh/
Literally 'I am withdrawing' or 'taking my leave.'
Ya me voy
/yah meh BOY/
Means 'I'm off now' or 'I'm leaving already.'
Me piro
/meh PEE-roh/
A very common slang expression in Spain.
Me largo
/meh LAR-goh/
A more abrupt way of saying you are leaving.
Tengo que marcharme
/TEN-goh keh mar-CHAR-meh/
A common alternative using the verb 'marchar' (to march or leave).
🔑Key Words
Key Words to learn:
📊Quick Comparison
Choose the right phrase based on who you are talking to and how fast you are leaving.
| Phrase | Formality | Best For | Avoid When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tengo que irme | Neutral | Almost any everyday situation. | Rarely ever out of place. |
| Me retiro | Formal | Professional settings or polite company. | Hanging out with close friends (sounds too stiff). |
| Me piro | Slang | Friends in Spain. | Talking to a boss or older relatives. |
| Ya me voy | Casual | Leaving a party or casual hang-out. | In a serious business meeting. |
📈Difficulty Level
The 'g' in 'tengo' and the rolled 'r' in 'irme' are the only slight hurdles for English speakers.
Learning where to put the 'me' is the only tricky part, but it's very flexible.
Understanding the 'long goodbye' culture is key to not appearing rude.
Key Challenges:
- Remembering to include the reflexive 'me'
- Choosing the right formality level
💡Examples in Action
Lo siento, tengo que irme ya. Mi tren sale en diez minutos.
I'm sorry, I need to go now. My train leaves in ten minutes.
Fue un gusto saludarlos, pero me retiro.
It was a pleasure to see you all, but I must take my leave.
Chicos, ya me voy, ¡nos vemos mañana!
Guys, I'm off, see you tomorrow!
🌍Cultural Context
The Art of the Long Goodbye
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, leaving is a process rather than a quick event. This is often called 'la despedida.' It's common to say 'I need to go' multiple times while slowly moving toward the door, continuing the conversation for another 15-20 minutes before actually exiting.
Explaining the Why
It is often considered slightly more polite to give a brief reason why you need to leave. Instead of just saying 'I need to go,' adding 'because I have to work early' (porque tengo que trabajar temprano) helps maintain the social connection.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Missing the 'me'
Mistake: "Saying 'Tengo que ir' instead of 'Tengo que irme'."
Correction: Tengo que irme.
Translating 'Need' too literally
Mistake: "Overusing 'Necesito irme'."
Correction: Tengo que irme.
💡Pro Tips
The 'Es que' Softener
If you feel awkward about leaving, start with 'Es que...' (It's just that...). For example: 'Es que ya me tengo que ir' sounds much softer and more natural than a blunt statement.
Check the Word Order
You can put the 'me' at the beginning ('Me tengo que ir') or attached to the end ('Tengo que irme'). Both are 100% correct and natural.
🗺️Regional Variations
Spain
Spain uses 'marchar' more frequently than Latin America for the act of leaving.
Mexico
'Me arranco' is a very Mexican, slightly slangy way to say you are taking off right now.
Argentina
'Me tomo el palo' is very common Argentine slang for leaving quickly.
💬What Comes Next?
When you say you have to go
¡Tan pronto!
So soon!
Sí, es que es tarde.
Yes, it's just that it's late.
They accept your departure
Que te vaya bien.
Hope everything goes well for you.
Igualmente, ¡chao!
Likewise, bye!
🧠Memory Tricks
You can imagine you have 'Ten minutes to Go' to remember that 'Tengo que irme' means you have to leave.
🎯Your Learning Path
➡️ Learn Next:
Nos vemos luego
The most common way to say 'see you later' after saying you need to go.
Tengo prisa
Explains 'I'm in a hurry' as a reason for leaving.
✏️Test Your Knowledge
💡 Quick Quiz: I need to go
Question 1 of 2
You are at a formal business dinner and need to leave. Which is the most appropriate phrase?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'Necesito irme' wrong?
No, it's not wrong, but it sounds very urgent. If you use it, people might ask if something is wrong. 'Tengo que irme' is much more natural for everyday situations.
Can I just say 'Chao'?
Yes, you can, but 'Chao' is a goodbye. 'Tengo que irme' explains that you are initiating the process of leaving. Usually, you say both: 'Bueno, tengo que irme. ¡Chao!'
What is the most common slang for 'I'm leaving'?
It depends on the region! In Spain, it's 'Me piro.' In Mexico, you might hear 'Me arranco.' In Argentina, 'Me rajo' is common slang.
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