Inklingo

How to Say "yes?" in Spanish

English → Spanish

dígame

Verb PhraseA1Formal
Use 'dígame' when you are responding to someone who has initiated contact, like answering the phone or a knock at the door, and you are prompting them to state their business.

Examples

—¿Hola? —Dígame, ¿en qué puedo ayudarle?

—Hello? —Yes, how can I help you?

mande

mahn-dehˈmande

InterjectionA1Informal
Use 'mande' as a very common, informal response when someone calls your name or tries to get your attention, essentially asking 'Yes? What is it?'.
A person leaning in with a hand cupped behind their ear, looking curious and attentive.

Examples

—¡Juan! —¿Mande?

—Juan! —Yes? (What is it?)

—¿Puedes cerrar la puerta? —¡Mande! No te escuché.

—Can you close the door? —Pardon? I didn't hear you.

A Polite Fixed Phrase

Even though this word looks like a verb, it is used here as a set phrase to show respect when you don't hear someone or are answering a call.

Don't use it everywhere

Mistake: “Using 'mande' in Spain or Argentina.”

Correction: In Spain, people usually say '¿qué?' or '¿perdona?'. Using 'mande' might make you sound like you are from a much older generation or from Mexico.

Formal vs. Informal 'Yes?'

The main confusion lies in formality. 'Dígame' is generally more formal and used when you are ready to assist someone, while 'mande' is informal and a quick acknowledgment when your name is called.

Related Translations

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