Not sure where to start your Spanish journey? Here, you’ll learn your first words and expressions to kick things off en español on the right foot.
These common Spanish words are your first step toward a real conversation, so try using them the next time you talk with a native Spanish speaker.
Ready? ¡Vamos!
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Spanish Greetings
Hola = Hello
The “h” is silent → say ola.
¿Cómo te va? = How’s it going?
Pronounced: KOH-moh teh BAH.
Friendly alternative to “¿cómo estás?”
Cultural tip: Remember to wait for the answer, don’t just walk away!
Buenos días = Good morning
Pronounced: BWEH-nos DEE-ahs.
Used until midday.
Buenas tardes = Good afternoon
Pronounced: BWEH-nas TAR-des.
Buenas noches = Good evening / Good night
Pronounced: BWEH-nas NOH-ches.
Can be used both as a greeting and a farewell.
Adiós = Goodbye
Pronounced: Ah-dee-OS.
Yes, No, and Magic Words
Sí = Yes
Pronounced: see
Don’t forget the accent mark.
No = No
Pronounced: noh
Used to make negative statements.
Por favor = Please
Pronounced: Por fah-BOR.
Use for polite requests.
Gracias = Thank you
Pronounced: GRAH-syahs (Latin America).
De nada = You’re welcome
Pronounced: Deh NAH-dah.
Literally means “it’s nothing.”
Tip: Using “por favor” and “gracias” will make you sound instantly more polite and friendly in Spanish.
More Useful Words and Phrases
Vale = OK / Alright
Pronounced: BAH-leh.
Saying “OK” works too.
Disculpe = Excuse me
Pronounced: Dees-KOOL-peh.
Use before asking a question or interrupting politely.
Lo siento = I’m sorry
Pronounced: Lo SYEN-toh.
Literally means “I feel it.”
¡Ayuda! = Help!
Pronounced: Ah-YOO-dah.
Useful in emergencies or tricky situations.
Let’s Practice These Basic Spanish Words
See the prompt on the front and guess the Spanish words for beginners. Flip the card to check the English equivalent on the back.
Now it’s time to put your new Spanish vocabulary to use! Have fun chatting with your amigos.
These words are perfect for your next small talk session and are just the start of your long Spanish adventure.
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