Inklingo

How to Say "go ahead" in Spanish

English → Spanish

dale

/DAH-leh//ˈda.le/

InterjectionA2Informal
Use 'dale' as a casual, encouraging interjection to give permission or tell someone to proceed, similar to 'go for it!' or 'do it!'.
An enthusiastic runner launching forward from a starting position on a track, demonstrating high energy and encouragement.

Examples

— ¿Puedo abrir la ventana? — Sí, dale.

— Can I open the window? — Yes, go ahead.

¿Debería llamarla? —¡Sí, dale!

Should I call her? —Yes, go for it!

¡Vamos, equipo, dale con todo!

Come on, team, give it your all!

DJ, ¡dale!

DJ, hit it!

hágalo

Verbal CommandA2Formal
Use 'hágalo' as a more formal or direct command to give someone permission to do something, often in a professional or instructional context.

Examples

Si necesita acceso, hágalo saber al guardia.

If you need access, go ahead and let the guard know.

Casual vs. Formal Permission

The main confusion is choosing between the informal 'dale' and the more formal 'hágalo'. 'Dale' is a general go-ahead for almost any situation, while 'hágalo' is a direct command implying more authority or a specific task.

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