Inklingo

How to Say "shut up" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “shut up” is “cállate” — use this informal command when speaking to someone you know well, like a friend or child, to tell them to be quiet. Be aware it can still sound rude if the tone isn't softened..

English → Spanish

cállate

Verb (Imperative)A2Informal
Use this informal command when speaking to someone you know well, like a friend or child, to tell them to be quiet. Be aware it can still sound rude if the tone isn't softened.

Examples

¡Cállate, por favor! El bebé está durmiendo.

Be quiet, please! The baby is sleeping.

calle

/KAH-yeh//ˈka.ʝe/

VerbA2Neutral/Slightly Formal
This is a polite but firm way to ask someone to be quiet, often used in public spaces or when addressing someone you don't know well, but it can sound harsh if delivered with an aggressive tone.
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!'

cállese

VerbB1Formal
Use this formal command when addressing someone older, in a position of authority, or in a very formal setting, to tell them to be quiet. It is a strong but respectful imperative.

Examples

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

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

Choosing between 'cállate' and 'cállese'

The most common mistake is using the informal 'cállate' with someone you should address formally. Always opt for 'cállese' when in doubt, especially with strangers, elders, or in professional situations to avoid causing offense.

Related Translations

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