Telling time in Spanish can be a bit tricky for non-native speakers, but with practice and the right tips, you’ll be a pro in no time. Here are 10 time-telling tips to help you master this essential skill:
First, let’s start with the basics. In Spanish, the day is divided into two main periods: the morning (la mañana) and the afternoon/evening (la tarde). To tell time, you’ll need to know the numbers 1-12, as well as some key phrases like “son las” (it’s) and “es la” (it’s).
Learn the numbers 1-12: To tell time in Spanish, you’ll need to know the numbers 1-12. Here they are: uno (1), dos (2), tres (3), cuatro (4), cinco (5), seis (6), siete (7), ocho (8), nueve (9), diez (10), once (11), and doce (12).
Use “son las” for times on the hour: When it’s exactly on the hour, use the phrase “son las” followed by the hour. For example: “Son las tres” (it’s 3 o’clock).
Use “es la” for times not on the hour: When it’s not exactly on the hour, use the phrase “es la” followed by the hour and the minutes. For example: “Es la tres y cuarto” (it’s 3:15).
Learn the minutes: To tell time in Spanish, you’ll also need to know the minutes. Here are the key phrases: cuarto (15 minutes), media (30 minutes), menos (less than), and cuarenta y cinco (45 minutes).
Use “y” to separate hours and minutes: When telling time, use the word “y” (and) to separate the hours and minutes. For example: “Son las cuatro y veinte” (it’s 4:20).
Practice with common times: Practice telling time with common times like 7:00, 12:00, and 6:00. This will help you get used to the rhythm of the language.
Learn to tell time in 24-hour format: In many Spanish-speaking countries, the 24-hour clock is used. To tell time in 24-hour format, simply add 12 to the hour. For example: 13:00 is 1:00 PM, and 20:00 is 8:00 PM.
Use “de la mañana” and “de la tarde” to specify AM/PM: To specify whether it’s morning or afternoon, use the phrases “de la mañana” (in the morning) and “de la tarde” (in the afternoon). For example: “Son las ocho de la mañana” (it’s 8:00 AM).
Don’t forget to use “y media” for half past the hour: When it’s half past the hour, use the phrase “y media” (and a half). For example: “Son las dos y media” (it’s 2:30).
Listen to native speakers: Finally, listen to native Spanish speakers to get a feel for how they tell time. Pay attention to their pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm.
How do I tell time in Spanish when it's exactly on the hour?
+When it's exactly on the hour, use the phrase "son las" followed by the hour. For example: "Son las tres" (it's 3 o'clock).
How do I tell time in Spanish when it's not exactly on the hour?
+When it's not exactly on the hour, use the phrase "es la" followed by the hour and the minutes. For example: "Es la tres y cuarto" (it's 3:15).
What is the difference between "son las" and "es la"?
+"Son las" is used for times on the hour, while "es la" is used for times not on the hour.
By following these 10 time-telling tips in Spanish, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this essential skill. Remember to practice regularly and listen to native speakers to get a feel for the language. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
