Inklingo

How to Say "be quiet" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cállate

Verb (Imperative)A2General, neutral command
Use this generally neutral and common command when speaking to one person you know well, or in informal situations.

Examples

¡Cállate, por favor! El bebé está durmiendo.

Be quiet, please! The baby is sleeping.

cállese

VerbB1Formal command
This is a formal command used when addressing someone older, in a position of authority, or someone you don't know, using the 'usted' form.

Examples

Señora, cállese por favor, no puedo escuchar las noticias.

Ma'am, please be quiet, I can't hear the news.

calle

/KAH-yeh//ˈka.ʝe/

VerbA2A formal command
This is a more formal and somewhat abrupt command, often used in public spaces or when a strong, immediate silence is required, typically addressed to one person with 'usted'.
A simple drawing of a person making the universal 'shhh' gesture by placing an index finger vertically over their lips.

Examples

Señor, ¡calle un momento!

Sir, be quiet for a moment!

No quiero que usted se calle. Su opinión es importante.

I don't want you to be quiet. Your opinion is important.

Espero que mi hermano se calle durante la película.

I hope my brother keeps quiet during the movie.

Two Kinds of Commands

In Spanish, commands are different for a friend ('tú') versus someone you're showing respect to ('usted'). '¡Calla!' is for 'tú', and '¡Calle!' is for 'usted'.

A Special Verb Form for Wishes

'Calle' is also a special form (called the subjunctive) used after words that express wishes, doubts, or emotions. For example, 'Espero que él se calle' (I hope that he is quiet).

Mixing up Commands

Mistake: “¡Amigo, calle por favor!”

Correction: When talking to a friend (amigo), use the 'tú' command form, which is 'calla'. The form 'calle' is for formal situations ('usted'). Correct: '¡Amigo, calla por favor!'

Formality is Key

The most common mistake is using the informal 'cállate' with someone you should address formally. Always default to 'cállese' when in doubt with strangers or elders, as 'cállate' can sound rude.

Related Translations

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