how to say in spanish what are you doing

2 min read 15-04-2025

how to say in spanish what are you doing

Knowing how to ask "What are you doing?" in Spanish is crucial for everyday conversations. This seemingly simple question opens doors to understanding someone's activities and engaging in further dialogue. This guide explores various ways to phrase this question, depending on the context and level of formality.

Different Ways to Ask "What Are You Doing?" in Spanish

The most straightforward translation of "What are you doing?" in Spanish depends on the tense and formality you're aiming for. Here are several options:

1. "¿Qué estás haciendo?" (Formal and Informal)

Meaning: This is the most common and versatile way to ask "What are you doing?" It uses the present continuous tense, suggesting an ongoing action.
Formality: Suitable for both formal and informal settings, making it a safe bet in most situations.
Example: "¿Qué estás haciendo ahora mismo?" (What are you doing right now?)

2. "¿Qué haces?" (Informal)

Meaning: This is a shorter, more informal version. It's equivalent to saying "What are you doing?" but is suitable only for close friends and family.
Formality: Strictly informal. Avoid using this with superiors, acquaintances, or strangers.
Example: "¿Qué haces este fin de semana?" (What are you doing this weekend?)

3. "¿En qué estás?" (Informal)

Meaning: This translates literally to "What are you in?" but idiomatically means "What are you doing?" or "What are you up to?". It implies a more inquisitive tone.
Formality: Informal. Best for close relationships.
Example: "¿En qué estás metido?" (What are you getting into?)

4. "¿Qué andas haciendo?" (Informal)

Meaning: This is a slightly more colloquial and less common way to say "What are you doing?". It literally translates to "What are you going about doing?".
Formality: Very informal, suitable only amongst very close friends.
Example: "¿Qué andas haciendo por aquí?" (What are you doing around here?)

Choosing the Right Phrase

The best way to ask "What are you doing?" in Spanish depends heavily on context:

Formality: If unsure, use "¿Qué estás haciendo?". It's always a safe option.
Relationship: Close friends and family can opt for the shorter, more informal "¿Qué haces?" or "¿En qué estás?".
Intent: If you want a more inquisitive tone, consider "¿En qué estás?".
Region: While these phrases are widely understood across Spanish-speaking regions, slight variations might exist.

Beyond the Basics: Adding Nuance

You can enhance your question by adding details:

Specify the time: "¿Qué estás haciendo ahora?" (What are you doing now?), "¿Qué estás haciendo esta tarde?" (What are you doing this afternoon?)
Add a question word: "¿Qué estás haciendo con...?" (What are you doing with...?), "¿Qué estás haciendo para...?" (What are you doing to...?)

Mastering the Spanish Question

By understanding the nuances of these different phrases, you can confidently ask "What are you doing?" in Spanish, tailoring your question to the specific situation and relationship. Practice using these phrases in different contexts to improve your fluency and communication skills. Learning these options will greatly enhance your ability to communicate naturally in Spanish. Remember to pay attention to the context and your relationship with the person you're speaking to.