Inklingo

How to Say "for example" in Spanish

English → Spanish

digamos

/dee-GAH-mos//diˈɣamos/

Discourse MarkerB1Informal
Use 'digamos' when you want to introduce an approximate number or a hypothetical situation in a more casual way, similar to 'let's say' or 'suppose'.
A simple colorful storybook illustration of a person holding their hands out, presenting a small, brightly colored star floating above their palms, symbolizing the introduction of a hypothetical idea.

Examples

Necesitas, digamos, cinco horas para terminar este proyecto.

You need, let's say, five hours to finish this project.

Fui a la tienda y compré, digamos, pan, leche y huevos.

I went to the store and bought, for example, bread, milk, and eggs.

El vestido es demasiado caro, digamos unos trescientos euros.

The dress is too expensive, approximately three hundred euros.

Using 'Digamos' as a Filler

'Digamos' is used as a pause filler or a hedge word, similar to saying 'like' or 'I guess' in English when you are making a rough estimate or softening a statement.

Overuse in Formal Settings

Mistake: “Using 'digamos' too often in formal writing or presentations.”

Correction: Reserve 'digamos' mainly for spoken Spanish or informal settings. In formal writing, use clearer phrases like 'por ejemplo' or 'aproximadamente'.

pongamos

pohn-GAH-mohs/poŋˈɡamos/

Fixed expressionB2Formal
Use 'pongamos' when you are setting up a more formal hypothetical scenario or supposition, often used to begin a question or statement about possibilities.
A storybook illustration of a woman sitting on a hill, looking up at a thought bubble above her head. Inside the bubble is a fantastical image of a purple pig with tiny wings flying, representing a hypothetical situation.

Examples

Pongamos que tienes un millón de dólares, ¿qué harías?

Let's suppose you have a million dollars, what would you do?

Pongamos por caso que la reunión se cancela. ¿Cuál es el plan B?

Let's imagine, for argument's sake, that the meeting is canceled. What is Plan B?

Introducing Hypotheses

The phrase 'Pongamos que...' is a quick way to introduce a hypothetical scenario. It's often followed by a verb in the present tense or a conditional structure.

Choosing Between 'Digamos' and 'Pongamos'

Learners often confuse 'digamos' and 'pongamos' because both can introduce hypothetical situations. Remember that 'digamos' is more informal and often used for approximations, while 'pongamos' is more formal and better suited for setting up a clear premise.

Related Translations

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