How to Say "be quiet" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “be quiet” is “cállate” — use this generally neutral and common command when speaking to one person you know well, or in informal situations.
Use this generally neutral and common command when speaking to one person you know well, or in informal situations.
Learn more →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.
Learn more →
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'.
Learn more →cállate
Examples
¡Cállate, por favor! El bebé está durmiendo.
Be quiet, please! The baby is sleeping.
cállese
Examples
Señora, cállese por favor, no puedo escuchar las noticias.
Ma'am, please be quiet, I can't hear the news.
KAH-yehˈka.ʝe
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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