spanish shopping essay

How to structure essays and formal texts in Spanish

Hello, future Spanish expert! Have you ever wanted to write an essay or formal text but didn't know where to start? Don’t worry, it’s happened to all of us! At first, writing essays or more serious texts in Spanish may seem complicated, but today I’ll show you how to do it simply and clearly. Relax, it’s easier than you think!

Let’s get started!

1. Starting the Journey: The Gateway to Your Essay

The first part of your Spanish essays is the introduction. Here, you introduce the topic to your reader.

Start with a catchy phrase : This helps grab the reader's attention. Example: “ ¿Qué tan importante crees que es sumergirse en una cultura para hablar su idioma con fluidez? ”
Introduce the topic : You should clearly state what your essay or formal text is about. Example: “ En este ensayo, vamos a descubrir la importancia de la inmersión cultural para aprender idiomas ”
State your thesis : This is the main point of your essay, what you intend to prove. Example: “ Voy a argumentar que la inmersión cultural es clave para aprender un idioma de verdad . ”

2. Development: The Heart of the Essay

The body is where you elaborate on your ideas. Here, each paragraph should include a relevant idea that supports your thesis. Let’s see how to do this:

Begin each paragraph with a clear idea : Example : “ Uno de los beneficios de la inmersión cultural es que acelera nuestro proceso de aprendizaje ”
Include examples to support your ideas : Example : “ Por ejemplo, muchos estudiantes de español aprenden de verdad al ver y escuchar películas típicas ”
Use connectors to ensure your text flows smoothly : Examples include: " Por lo tanto," "sin embargo", "así mismo", "por ello " , etc.

Extra Tip : Try to keep your paragraphs under five sentences. Remember, clarity is more important than length.

3. Ending on a High Note

Whether you’re writing essays or formal texts in Spanish, make sure to include a solid conclusion. In this section, reiterate the main ideas and share your final opinion or reflection.

Provide a brief summary : Example : “ En resumen, sumergirse en la cultura de un país es una de las mejores maneras de aprender su idioma .”
Offer a clear conclusion : Example : “ Por eso, es fundamental incluir la inmersión cultural en nuestro proceso de aprendizaje de español ”

4. Style Matters: Formatting with Purpose

When writing essays or formal texts in Spanish, it’s equally important to express your ideas clearly and present them neatly. Here are some tips to make your texts easy to read:

Control Length : Overloading your text can bore the reader. Aim for short paragraphs that clearly convey your message. A brief, clear paragraph is better than a long, confusing one!
Mind Your Spelling : A typo in a casual chat is fine, but for formal texts in Spanish, good spelling is crucial. If you need help, use online spelling checkers and tools to lend a hand.
Alignment and Font Size : Make sure the text is left-aligned or justified. Choose a font size that is neither too large nor too small.

5. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Congratulations! Now you have several tools to write essays or formal texts in Spanish like a pro. To help you advance even faster, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Not stating the main point upfront : The introduction is key to letting the reader know what your text is about. Be clear when explaining the main point.
Disorganized Content : Mixing different ideas in one paragraph or failing to organize them can cause confusion. Make a list of your ideas before you start writing. This will help you organize them better.
Unclear Conclusion : End your essay strongly and encourage reflection or action. The reader should take away the main message of your writing.

Ready to Shine: Let’s Get Writing! Great job! Now, there’s no essay or formal text you can’t handle. Remember three things: clearly state your main point in the introduction, organize your ideas well in the body, and end with a conclusion that leaves an impression. Writing essays and formal texts may seem challenging at first, but with practice and patience, you’ll master it! And if you ever have doubts, this guide will always be here to help.

See you soon!

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Shopping in Spanish – A Complete Collection of Essential Phrases and Words

September 14, 2020

Joanna Lupa

Whether you live in a Spanish speaking country or just spending your summer holiday there, you’ll indeed have to go shopping at least once in a while.

Be it simple groceries or hiking provisions, a beer or a glass of wine, cheap souvenirs, or local handicrafts; you’ll need to know how to ask about the price, complain if something is too expensive, or request a discount.

Bargaining is part of Latin American culture. Not in big stores or supermarkets, of course. But when you buy fresh fruit and vegetables at a local street market or get the last couple of souvenirs from a small artisan store, go for it!

A piece of advice: Latin Americans are as friendly and hospitable as it gets, but they are also known for often taking advantage of the naíve gringo (gringo is a term they use for foreign-looking – blue-eyed and blond-haired – tourists). So beware, check the local prices well and keep your wallet close to you.

11 Essential Phrases and Words for Shopping in Spanish

If you were only to know a few basic shopping vocabularies in Spanish, this is your must-know list:

🇪🇸 ¿Cuánto cuesta? – 🇬🇧 how much is it?
🇪🇸 Solo estoy mirando. – 🇬🇧 I’m just looking.
🇪🇸 Quiero comprar… – 🇬🇧 I want to buy…
🇪🇸 Me lo llevo – 🇬🇧 I’ll take it.
🇪🇸 ¡Es muy caro! – 🇬🇧 It’s very expensive!
🇪🇸 el precio – 🇬🇧 the price
🇪🇸 una tienda – 🇬🇧 a store, a shop
🇪🇸 un descuento – 🇬🇧 a discount
🇪🇸 una oferta – 🇬🇧 an offer
🇪🇸 solo efectivo – 🇬🇧 cash only
🇪🇸 el vuelto – 🇬🇧 the change

Asking about Price in Spanish

Knowing how to ask about the price is one of the basic shopping skills. It will help you avoid misunderstanding and surprises when you see the bill or the receipt.

Below you will find a selection of different ways you can ask about the price in Spanish.

🇪🇸 A: ¿Cuánto es? B: Son 5 euros. 🇬🇧 A: How much is it? B: It’s 5 euros.

🇪🇸 A: ¿Cuánto cuesta una cerveza? B: La pequeña cuesta 5 mil pesos y la grande 10 mil. 🇬🇧 A: How much does a beer cost? B: The small one costs 5 thousand pesos, and the big one ten thousand.

🇪🇸 A: ¿A cómo está el kilo de naranjas? B: A 3 euros con quince centavos. 🇬🇧 A: How much for a kilogram of oranges? B: 3 euros and 15 cents.

🇪🇸 A: ¿Cuánto le debo? B: Cinco mil quinientos diez pesos. Tiene moneda de 10? A: Si, aquí está. 🇬🇧 A: How much do I owe you? B: 5510 pesos. Do you have a 10-peso coin? A: Yes, here you are.

🇪🇸 A:¿Tiene vuelto de 20 euro? B: Lamentablemente casi no me queda sencillo. 🇬🇧 A: Can you break a 20 euro bill/note? B: Unfortunately, I hardly have any small cash left.

In case you forget all the more complex questions, remember that a simple question word “ ¿quánto? – how much?” can take you a long way.

Make sure to get all your Spanish question words straight. They are crucial every time you need to ask the locals for something.

Names of Stores in Spanish

Depending on what it is that you want to shop for, you’ll need a different type of store. I’ve listed the most important ones below:

🇪🇸 un supermercado – 🇬🇧 a supermarket
🇪🇸 una tienda de abarrotes – 🇬🇧 a grocery store
🇪🇸 una panadería – 🇬🇧 a bakery
🇪🇸 una verdulería – 🇬🇧 a greengrocer’s
🇪🇸 una carnicería – 🇬🇧 a butcher’s
🇪🇸 una pescadería – 🇬🇧 a fish store
🇪🇸 una zapatería – 🇬🇧 a shoe store
🇪🇸 una librería – 🇬🇧 a bookstore (don’t confuse with a library, which is una biblioteca)
🇪🇸 una florería – 🇬🇧 a flower shop
🇪🇸 una joyería – 🇬🇧 a jewelry store
🇪🇸 una multitienda – 🇬🇧 a department store
🇪🇸 una tienda de mascotas – 🇬🇧 a pet store
🇪🇸 una tienda de regalos – 🇬🇧 a gift store
🇪🇸 una farmacia – 🇬🇧 a pharmacy / a drugstore
🇪🇸 una feria – 🇬🇧 a street market
🇪🇸 un centro comercial / un mall – 🇬🇧 a shopping center / a mall

As you can see, many store names in Spanish are based on the name of the product they specialize in plus the “ía” ending.

🇪🇸 pescado – 🇬🇧 fish 🇪🇸 pescadería -🇬🇧 fish store

🇪🇸 flor – 🇬🇧 flower 🇪🇸 florería – 🇬🇧 flower shop

and so on, and so forth.

To ask where certain stores are, you’ll have to review another essential skill: Spanish directions . Without them, how can you understand and follow other people’s indications?

Hopefully, these few mini-dialogues help refresh your memory:

🇪🇸 A: ¿Hay un supermercado cerca? B: Si, a unas cinco cuadras más arriba. 🇬🇧 A: Is there a supermarket close to here? B: Yes, about 5 blocks up the street.

🇪🇸 A: ¿Dónde hay una farmacia, por favor? B: Camine hasta los semáforos y despúes doble a la izquierda. 🇬🇧 A: Where’s a pharmacy, please? B: Walk until the traffic lights and then turn left.

🇪🇸 A: Señor, ¿dónde queda la panadería más cercana? B: Si bien recuerdo hay una en la calle Rosario un poco más allá. 🇬🇧 A: Where is the nearest bakery, sir? B: If I remember correctly, there is one on the Rosario street a little further.

🇪🇸 A: Estoy buscando una buena zapatería. B: Hmmm, creo que va a tener que ir al centro comercial. Por acá no hay ninguna. 🇬🇧 A: I’m looking for a good shoe store. B: Hmmm, I’m afraid you’ll have to go to the shopping mall. There is none nearby.

🇪🇸 Test Your Spanish Knowledge 🇪🇸

Another useful vocabulary group related to stores and shopping in Spanish is telling the time and naming days of the week . They will help you ask about and understand the opening hours and timetables.

🇪🇸 ¿A qué hora abre el centro comercial? 🇬🇧 What time does the shopping center open?

🇪🇸 Lo siento, la librería cierra a las seis y media. 🇬🇧 Sorry, the bookstore closes at 6:30 PM.

🇪🇸 Nuestra verdulería abre de 8AM a 4PM. 🇬🇧 Our greengrocer is open from 8 AM to 4 PM.

🇪🇸 ¿Qué días de la semana está abierta la feria? 🇬🇧 What days of the week is the street market open?

Shopping in a Supermarket

Grocery shopping is something you most definitely can’t do without even if you live or stay abroad. After all, we all need to eat, don’t we?

Supermarkets and other self-service stores are a lifesaver for those who feel shy about their Spanish speaking skills. Yet, a minimum conversation and shopping vocabulary are required even there.

Have a look:

🇪🇸 un carrito – 🇬🇧 a shopping cart / a trolley
🇪🇸 un canasto – 🇬🇧 a basket
🇪🇸 una caja – 🇬🇧 a cash counter
🇪🇸 un cajero / una cajera – 🇬🇧 a cashier (masculine and feminine)
🇪🇸 el supervisor – 🇬🇧 the supervisor
🇪🇸 una fila / una cola – 🇬🇧 a line / a queue
🇪🇸 un pasillo – 🇬🇧 an aisle
🇪🇸 lactéos – 🇬🇧 dairy
🇪🇸 confites- 🇬🇧 sweets, candy
🇪🇸 los electrodomésticos – 🇬🇧 home appliances (a toaster, a microwave oven and such)
🇪🇸 vestuario – 🇬🇧 clothes
🇪🇸 los congelados – 🇬🇧 rozen products
🇪🇸 una bolsa – 🇬🇧 a bag
🇪🇸 una boleta / un comprobante / un recibo – 🇬🇧 a receipt
🇪🇸 una factura – 🇬🇧 an invoice
🇪🇸 servicio al cliente – 🇬🇧 customer service
🇪🇸 un empaquetador – 🇬🇧 a supermarket packer

The person described at the bottom of the list, empaquetador , is someone who helps you pack your groceries for some small change. They are usually college students who try to earn a few extra coins on weekends or whenever they don’t have classes.

What are some basic shopping phrases in Spanish that you might need in a supermarket?

Here are a few suggestions:

🇪🇸 Necesito un carrito. 🇬🇧 I need a shopping cart.

🇪🇸 ¿Tienen más canastos? 🇬🇧 Do you have more baskets?

🇪🇸 ¿En qué pasillo están los lácteos? 🇬🇧 What aisle is dairy in?

🇪🇸 ¿Dónde encuentro papel aluminio? 🇬🇧 Where do I find tin foil?

🇪🇸 No alcanzo la repisa de más arriba. 🇬🇧 I can’t reach the top shelf.

🇪🇸 ¿Cuánto cuestan las bolsas de papel? 🇬🇧 How much are the paper bags?

🇪🇸 Hay un error en mi recibo. 🇬🇧 There is a mistake in my receipt.

🇪🇸 Quiero hablar con el supervisor, por favor. 🇬🇧 I’d like to talk to the supervisor, please.

🇪🇸 ¿Tienen empaquetadores? 🇬🇧 Do you have packers?

🇪🇸 ¿Dónde queda el servicio al cliente? 🇬🇧 Where’s customer service?

🇪🇸 ¿Tienen papel de regalo? 🇬🇧 Do you have wrapping paper?

And what can you get asked in a supermarket? Get ready and practice your reply:

🇪🇸 A: ¿Cómo paga? B: Con tarjeta de crédito / en efectivo. 🇬🇧 A: How are you paying? B: With a credit card / in cash.

🇪🇸 A: ¿Le gustaría donar parte de su vuelo? B: Claro, 50 pesos. 🇬🇧 A: Would you like to donate part of your change? B: Sure, 50 pesos.

🇪🇸 A: ¿Le ayudo a embolsar las cosas? B: Si, muchas gracias. 🇬🇧 A: Can I help you to bag the things? B: Yes, thanks a lot.

How to Shop for Souvenirs in Spanish

Being a tourist in a Spanish speaking country, you’ll probably want to take some souvenirs home with you. Something special for your close family – local handicraft jewelry, clothes or accessories, or a jar of handmade jam perhaps, and a few cheap knick-knacks for your workmates.

🇪🇸 un recuerdo- 🇬🇧 a souvenir
🇪🇸 un regalo – 🇬🇧 a gift
🇪🇸 artesanía – 🇬🇧 handicraft
🇪🇸 una feria de artesanía – 🇬🇧 an artisan market
🇪🇸 un llavero – 🇬🇧 a key ring
🇪🇸 un imán – 🇬🇧 a magnet
🇪🇸 una postal- 🇬🇧 a postcard
🇪🇸 hecho a mano – 🇬🇧 handmade
🇪🇸 casero – 🇬🇧 homemade
🇪🇸 100 % de lana – 🇬🇧 100% wool
🇪🇸 de madera – 🇬🇧 wooden
🇪🇸 de plata – 🇬🇧 silver
🇪🇸 de oro – 🇬🇧 gold
🇪🇸 vestimenta típica – 🇬🇧 typical outfit
🇪🇸 música folklorica – 🇬🇧 folk music

The souvenir vocabulary from this list and the sample sentences below will surely come in handy.

🇪🇸 Busco un bonito recuerdo para mis hijos. 🇬🇧 I am looking for a nice souvenir for my children.

🇪🇸 ¿Cuánto cuestan los llaveros? 🇬🇧 How much are the keyrings?

🇪🇸 Quiero cinco imanes diferentes. I want five different magnets.

🇪🇸 ¿Qué es esto? 🇬🇧 What is this?

🇪🇸 ¿De qué está hecho? 🇬🇧 What is it made of?

🇪🇸 ¿Para qué sirve? 🇬🇧 What do you use it for?

🇪🇸 ¿Qué piedra es? 🇬🇧 What stone is it? (talking about jewelry)

🇪🇸 ¿Está hecho a mano? 🇬🇧 Is it handmade?

🇪🇸 ¿Es comestible? 🇬🇧 Is it eatable?

🇪🇸 ¿Tiene alcohol? 🇬🇧 Does it have a lcohol?

🇪🇸 ¿Cómo funciona? 🇬🇧 How does it work?

🇪🇸 ¿Aceptan tarjetas? 🇬🇧 Do you accept cards?

🇪🇸 ¿Puedo pagar en dólares? 🇬🇧 Can I pay in dollars?

🇪🇸 ¿Cuál es la tasa de cambio? 🇬🇧 What’s the exchange rate?

🇪🇸 OK, me lo llevo. 🇬🇧 OK, I’ll take it.

🇪🇸 ¿Me lo puede envolver para regalo? 🇬🇧 Can you gift-wrap it?

🇪🇸 ¿Me lo puede guardar hasta mañana? 🇬🇧 Can you put it aside for me by tomorrow?

Buying Groceries in Spanish

What if there is no supermarket at sight and you are hungry and in desperate need of groceries? You’ll have to brave up and stand face to face with a grocer around the corner.

Shopping in Spanish – show time!

First of all, make sure to learn the names of the products you need:

🇪🇸 leche entera – 🇬🇧 whole milk
🇪🇸 leche semidescremada – 🇬🇧 semi-skimmed milk
🇪🇸 leche descremada – 🇬🇧 nonfat / skimmed milk
🇪🇸 pan – 🇬🇧 bread
🇪🇸 pan integral – 🇬🇧 wholemeal bread
🇪🇸 queso – 🇬🇧 cheese
🇪🇸 huevos – 🇬🇧 eggs
🇪🇸 jamón – 🇬🇧 ham
🇪🇸 yogur – 🇬🇧 yoghurt
🇪🇸 mantequilla – 🇬🇧 butter
🇪🇸 crema / nata – 🇬🇧 cream
🇪🇸 una lata de atún – 🇬🇧 a can of tuna
🇪🇸 una caja de cereales – 🇬🇧 a box of cereals
🇪🇸 mermelada – 🇬🇧 jam
🇪🇸 helado – 🇬🇧 icecream
🇪🇸 sal – 🇬🇧 salt
🇪🇸 arroz – 🇬🇧 rice
🇪🇸 tallarines / fideos – 🇬🇧 pasta
🇪🇸 cerveza – 🇬🇧 beer
🇪🇸 refresco, gaseosa bebida – 🇬🇧 soda
🇪🇸 agua mineral – 🇬🇧 mineral water
🇪🇸 con gas – 🇬🇧 sparkling
🇪🇸 sin gas – 🇬🇧 still, flat (about water)
🇪🇸 vino – 🇬🇧 wine
🇪🇸 sin lactosa – 🇬🇧 lactose-free
🇪🇸 sin gluten – 🇬🇧 gluten-free

I am also adding a bunch of useful questions and basic requests. If you are a native-English speaker, bear in mind that Spanish speaking countries use the metric system. Milk and juice are usually sold by the liter and flour, sugar, rice, and such – by the kilogram.

🇪🇸 ¿Tiene pan integral? 🇬🇧 Do you have wholemeal bread?

🇪🇸 ¿Cuánto cuesta una botella de Malbec? 🇬🇧 How much is a bottle of Malbec (wine)?

🇪🇸 Quiero un litro de leche entera y un kilo de harina, por favor. 🇬🇧 I’d like a liter of whole milk and a kilogram of bread, please.

🇪🇸 ¿Le queda helado de vainilla? 🇬🇧 Do you have any vanilla ice cream left?

🇪🇸 Cinco láminas de queso, por favor. 🇬🇧 Five slices of cheese, please.

🇪🇸 A: ¿Algo más? B: No, eso es todo, gracias. 🇬🇧 A: Anything else? B: No, it’s all, thanks.

In case you wonder what the most common containers are in Spanish , these are:

🇪🇸 un paquete (de galletas) – 🇬🇧 a pack (of cookies)
🇪🇸 una bolsa (de azúcar) – 🇬🇧 a bag (of sugar)
🇪🇸 una botella (de jugo) – 🇬🇧 a bottle (of juice)
🇪🇸 una lata (de cerveza)- 🇬🇧 a can (of beer)
🇪🇸 una barra (de mantequilla) – 🇬🇧 a bar (of butter)
🇪🇸 una caja (de leche) – 🇬🇧 a carton (of milk)
🇪🇸 un frasco (de mermelada) – 🇬🇧 a jar (of jam)
🇪🇸 un sobre (de cilantro seco) – 🇬🇧 an sachet (of dried coriander)

Shopping for Fruit and Vegetables in Spanish – relevant vocabulary

On your way back from the grocery store, you might want to stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables. If you are looking for good quality and affordable prices (or “las tres B ” as they say in Spanish) – Bueno, Bonito y Barato – which translates as Good, Pretty and Cheap ), I suggest you consider street markets. They are very popular in Latin America and quite easy to find.

🇪🇸 una manzana- 🇬🇧 an apple
🇪🇸 una pera – 🇬🇧 a pear
🇪🇸 uvas – 🇬🇧 grapes
🇪🇸 una fresa – 🇬🇧 a strawberry
🇪🇸 una frambuesa – 🇬🇧 a raspberry
🇪🇸 una piña – 🇬🇧 a pineapple
🇪🇸 un plátano / una banana – 🇬🇧 a banana
🇪🇸 una ciruela – 🇬🇧 a plum
🇪🇸 un melocotón / un durazno – 🇬🇧 a peach
🇪🇸 un limón- 🇬🇧 a lemon
🇪🇸 una lechuga- 🇬🇧 a lettuce
🇪🇸 un tomate – 🇬🇧 a tomato
🇪🇸 un aguacate/ una palta – 🇬🇧 an avocado
🇪🇸 una zanahoria – 🇬🇧 a carrot
🇪🇸 un repollo / una col – 🇬🇧 a cabbage
🇪🇸 una cebolla – 🇬🇧 an onion
🇪🇸 un ajo – 🇬🇧 garlic
🇪🇸 un brócoli – 🇬🇧 a broccoli
🇪🇸 una coliflor – 🇬🇧 a cauliflower
🇪🇸 perejil – 🇬🇧 parsley

🇪🇸 Un kilo de manzanas, por favor. 🇬🇧 A kilogram of apples, please.

🇪🇸 ¿Están maduras las peras? 🇬🇧 Are the pears ripe?

🇪🇸 ¿Está fresca la lechuga? Is the lettuce fresh?

🇪🇸 Un manojo de perejil y cuatro cabezas de ajo, por favor. 🇬🇧 A bunch of parsley and cuatro heads of garlic, please

🇪🇸 ¿Cu ánto pesa este racimo de uvas, por favor? 🇬🇧 How much does this bunch of grapes weigh, please?

🇪🇸 ¿Tiene algunas hierbas frescas? 🇬🇧 Do you have any fresh herbs?

🇪🇸 Estas frambuesas no se ven muy bien. ¿Me las puede cambiar por otras? 🇬🇧 These raspberries don’t look too well. Can you change them for others?

Visits to local stores and markets are the best listening comprehension practice you could get. When I first came to Chile, I absolutely dreaded talking to real people, and at first, I wouldn’t understand a single word they said. However, with some patience and persistence, I got better and better at no time.

Clothes and Accessories and How to Shop for Them in Spanish

Here’s a treat for my female readers. Shopping for clothes is a guilty pleasure most of us share, isn’t it? I know that there are men who also enjoy visits to clothing stores. Unfortunately, my husband isn’t one of them.

🇪🇸 una falda- 🇬🇧 a skirt
🇪🇸 una camisa – 🇬🇧 a shirt
🇪🇸 un vestido – 🇬🇧 a dress
🇪🇸 pantalones – 🇬🇧 pants
🇪🇸 camiseta / polera / remera – 🇬🇧 a T-shirt
🇪🇸 una blusa – 🇬🇧 a blouse
🇪🇸 un abrigo – 🇬🇧 coat
🇪🇸 un impermeable – 🇬🇧 a raincoat
🇪🇸 una chaqueta – 🇬🇧 a jacket
🇪🇸 un suéter / un jersey / un chaleco – 🇬🇧 a sweater
🇪🇸 una sudadera / un polerón- 🇬🇧 a sweatshirt
🇪🇸 un buzo – 🇬🇧 a tracksuit
🇪🇸 zapatos – 🇬🇧 shoes
🇪🇸 zapatillas – 🇬🇧 sneakers / trainers
🇪🇸 chalas / sandalias – 🇬🇧 sandals
🇪🇸 chanclas / havaianas – 🇬🇧 flip-flops
🇪🇸 un traje de baño – 🇬🇧 a swimsuit
🇪🇸 un bolso – 🇬🇧 a bag
🇪🇸 una mochila – 🇬🇧 a backpack
🇪🇸 una cartera de cuero – 🇬🇧 a leather handbag
🇪🇸 un cinturón – 🇬🇧 a belt
🇪🇸 gafas de sol / lentes de sol – 🇬🇧 sunglasses
🇪🇸 un sombrero – 🇬🇧 a hat
🇪🇸 una gorra – 🇬🇧 a cap
🇪🇸 una bufanda – 🇬🇧 a scarf
🇪🇸 guantes – 🇬🇧 gloves
🇪🇸 calcetines – 🇬🇧 socks

Specific clothes vocabulary might vary from country to country. You’ll most likely notice quite big differences between Latin Spanish and Spanish from Spain .

What are the phrases that you, as a customer, will most likely need when shopping for clothes? Below you’ll find quite a few of them:

🇪🇸 Necesito una talla más grande / más pequeña, por favor. 🇬🇧 I need a larger / smaller size, please.

🇪🇸 ¿Lo / la tiene en la talla 8? 🇬🇧 Do you have it in size 8? – depending on if the item of clothing is masculine or feminine in Spanish, you will use lo or la .

🇪🇸 ¿Lo / la tiene en otro color? 🇬🇧 Do you have it a different color?

🇪🇸 Busco una blusa blanca de manga corta. 🇬🇧 I’m looking for a short-sleeved white blouse.

🇪🇸 ¿Este chaleco es de lana? 🇬🇧 Is this sweater made of wool?

🇪🇸 Esta tela no parece ser de buena calidad. 🇬🇧 This fabric doesn’t seem to be of good quality.

🇪🇸 ¿Dónde están los probadores? 🇬🇧 Where are the fitting rooms?

🇪🇸 ¿Dónde encuentro ropa deportiva? 🇬🇧 Where do I find the sportswear section?

🇪🇸 Me lo / la quiero probar. 🇬🇧 I’d like to try it on. – again, the choice between lo and la will depend on the grammatical gender of the garment

🇪🇸 ¿Cómo me queda? 🇬🇧 How does it look on me?

🇪🇸 Me queda un poco apretado/a. 🇬🇧 It looks a little too tight.

🇪🇸 Te queda demasiado suelto. 🇬🇧 It looks too loose on you.

🇪🇸 Las rayas no me favorecen. 🇬🇧 Stripes don’t look flattering on me.

🇪🇸 Busco zapatos cómodos, sin tacones. 🇬🇧 I’m looking for comfortable, flat shoes. ( literally : without heels)

🇪🇸 ¿Tiene un cinturón que combine con esta cartera? 🇬🇧 Do you have a belt that matches this handbag?

🇪🇸 ¿Aceptan devoluciones? 🇬🇧 Do you allow refunds (for returned clothes)?

🇪🇸 Vengo a hacer un cambio, por favor. 🇬🇧 I’m coming to exchange the product.

And these are some of the things you might hear from the shop assistant:

🇪🇸 ¿Le puedo ayudar en algo? 🇬🇧 Do you need any help?

🇪🇸 ¿Qué talla necesita? 🇬🇧 What size do you need?

🇪🇸 ¿Se lo/la quiere probar? 🇬🇧 Do you want to try it on?

🇪🇸 ¿Cuántas prendas tiene? 🇬🇧 How many garments do you have?

🇪🇸 Los cambios solamente con boleta / recibo. 🇬🇧 We only allow exchange with receipt.

🇪🇸 Estos zapatos tienen 3 meses de garantía. 🇬🇧 These shoes have a 3-month warranty.

How to bargain in Spanish

It might not be a part of your culture, but you can definitely give bargaining a try in Spanish speaking countries. Of course, as long as you know where and with whom.

Shopping for souvenirs at an artisan market? Yes.

Buying books in a book-store? Definitely not. Unless it is a small one, you are being attended by its owner, paying cash, and making a big purchase.

Interested in putting your price negotiation skills to practice? Here are your basics:

🇪🇸 regatear – 🇬🇧 to bargain
🇪🇸 una ganga – 🇬🇧 a bargain
🇪🇸 un descuento / una rebaja – 🇬🇧 a discount
🇪🇸 una liquidación – 🇬🇧 a sale
🇪🇸 rebajar el precio – 🇬🇧 to lower the price
🇪🇸 barato – 🇬🇧 cheap
🇪🇸 caro – 🇬🇧 expensive
🇪🇸 un robo – 🇬🇧 a steal

🇪🇸 ¿Me da un descuento si pago en efectivo? 🇬🇧 Can you give me a discount if I pay in cash?

🇪🇸 ¿Me puede hacer algún descuento si compro varios? 🇬🇧 Can you offer a discount if I buy several (of a certain product)?

🇪🇸 Es demasiado caro. 🇬🇧 It is too expensive.

🇪🇸 ¿Cuál es su mejor precio? 🇬🇧 What’s your best price?

🇪🇸 ¡Es un robo! 🇬🇧 It’s a steal!

🇪🇸 Me está cobrando demasiado. 🇬🇧 You’re charging me too much.

🇪🇸 ¿En cuanto me lo deja todo? 🇬🇧 How much if I take all these things?

🇪🇸 Lo vimos mucho más barato en la otra tienda. 🇬🇧 We saw it much cheaper in the other store.

🇪🇸 ¿Este producto está en liquidación? 🇬🇧 Is this product on sale?

🇪🇸 Hay un error. Debería estar con 20 por ciento de descuento. 🇬🇧 There is a mistake. It should be 20% off.

🇪🇸 Lo siento, este producto no tiene descuento. 🇬🇧 Sorry, this product doesn’t have any discount.

🇪🇸 Uno por tres dólares y cuatro en diez. 🇬🇧 One for three dollars and four for ten.

🇪🇸 No lo encontrará más barato. 🇬🇧 You won’t find it any cheaper.

🇪🇸 Le ofrezco un 5% de descuento si paga en efectivo. 🇬🇧 I can offer 5% off if you pay in cash.

🇪🇸 Lo siento, es la mejor oferta que le puedo dar. 🇬🇧 Sorry, it’s the best price I can offer.

Have you noticed how these same bargaining phrases can be successfully used in a Business Spanish context as well?

Thanks for reading! If you stayed with me until the end of this post, I officially declared you trained to shop in Spanish.

Spanish Resources

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Shopping in Spanish

Words and Phrases You Can Use

History & Culture
Pronunciation
Writing Skills
B.A., Seattle Pacific University

For many travelers , shopping is one of the most anticipated activities. If you are visiting a Spanish-speaking area and want to shop, whether that means buying souvenirs or going grocery shopping for the day, this list of words and phrases along with a basic knowledge of grammar and everyday vocabulary should make the task easier.

General Shopping Terms and Phrases

Consider learning basic terms to understand the type of stores you will be shopping at, including their location and hours. These key phrases will help you talk to a store manager, such as asking them what you want to try on or where the cash register is.

Abierto a las 10 — Open at 10
¿Hay ...? — Are there ...? Do you have ...?
La caja; el cajero, la cajera — Cash register or place where payments are made; cashier
Gracias , muchas gracias, mil gracias — Thank you, thank you very much
No lo quiero. No los quiero. No la quiero. No las quiero. — I don't want it. ( Lo and los are used to refer to things with a masculine name, la and las for things with a feminine name.)
Quiero ..., por favor. — I want ..., please.
Quisiera probarlo, por favor. — I would like to try it (on), please.
Quisiera ..., por favor. — I would like ..., please.
Voy a pensarlo. — I'll think about it.
Por favor — Please
Sólo quería mirar. — I'm only looking.
Vuelvo pronto. Vuelvo más tarde. — I'll come back soon. I'll come back later.

Words and Phrases for Understanding Cost and Value

One of the most important parts of shopping is budgeting. Knowing the value of what you are buying is a must when dealing with exchange rates, foreign currency and a new language. Use the following terms to calculate costs.

Barato — Cheap
Caro, cara — Expensive
Comprar — To buy
¿Cuál es el cambio? — What is the exchange rate ?
¿Cuánto cuesta? ¿Cuánto cuestan? — How much does it cost? How much do they cost?
¿Cuánto vale? ¿Cuánto valen? — How much is it worth? How much are they worth?
¿Cuántos dólares? ¿Cuántos pesos? ¿Cuántos euros? — How much (in dollars)? How much (in pesos)? How much (in euros)?
¿Dónde puedo comprar ...? — Where can I buy ...?
Descuento — Discount
En oferta, en oferta especial — On sale
Rebaja — Price reduction
De rebajas — On sale, at a discount
En venta, a la venta — For sale, on sale
Tarjeta de crédito; ¿Se aceptan tarjetas de crédito? — Credit card; Are credit cards accepted?
Vender, vendedor — To sell, seller

How to Describe the Items You Are Looking for

Looking for something specific? Ask an assistant if they have what you are looking for in a specific size, color or material. The more descriptive, the more they will be able to help you.

¿Hay ... en otros colores? ¿Hay ... en otras tallas? — Do you have ... in other colors? Do you have ... in other sizes?
De buena calidad — Good quality
De mala calidad — Poor quality
Pequeño, pequeña — Small
Mediano, mediana — Medium (in size)
Grande — Large
Son muy bonitos. Son muy bonitas. — They're very pretty. ( Bonitos is used to refer to things with a masculine name, bonitas if the name is feminine.)
Names of Stores and Shops in Spanish
Spanish Vocabulary for Planes and Airports
Words for Snow in Spanish
Spanish Vocabulary Terms for Clothes
Say It Right in Spanish
Two-Letter Words in Spanish
Winter Sports in Spanish
Spanish at the Beach
Introducing Afterthoughts and Offhand Remarks in Spanish
The Difference Between Spanish Verbs "Saber" and "Conocer"
How To Translate the Auxiliary Verbs ‘Might’ and ‘May’ to Spanish
Translating 'Since' in Spanish
Ways of Saying Then in Spanish
Phrases Meaning 'Unless'
'Hombre' and 'Mujer'
Using 'Fin'

MY-SPANISH-DICTIONARY

Master Spanish Shopping Conversations with Practical Scenarios

When learning a new language, practical application is crucial for mastering speaking and pronunciation skills. One of the most common real-life scenarios where you’ll need to put your Spanish language knowledge to the test is when you go shopping. Whether you’re visiting a local market, a department store, or a small boutique, being able to effectively communicate in Spanish will enhance your experience and help you feel more confident. In this article, we’ll provide you with essential phrases and vocabulary related to shopping, as well as some effective conversation practice exercises to help you get familiar with these scenarios.

Shopping is an integral part of everyday life, and it provides a natural context for practicing your Spanish conversation skills. You’ll learn how to ask for prices, inquire about products, make comparisons, and even return items effectively. It’s useful not only for travelers but also for anyone looking to become fluent in Spanish.

We will explore various typical shopping situations and equip you with the language tools you need to navigate them effortlessly. From buying groceries to shopping for clothes, electronics, or even haggling at a flea market, each section will focus on a different aspect of the shopping experience. Let’s begin this immersive journey into the world of Spanish shopping conversations!

Grocery Shopping in Spanish

Grocery shopping is often one of the first practical applications new Spanish learners encounter. Knowing how to ask for items, address store employees, and understand the layout of a grocery store can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Here are some common phrases and questions you might need:

¿Dónde están los lácteos? (Where is the dairy section?)
¿Cuánto cuesta esto? (How much does this cost?)
Quisiera un kilo de manzanas, por favor. (I would like a kilo of apples, please.)
¿Tiene cambio de un billete de cincuenta? (Do you have change for a fifty bill?)

To practice, try creating a mock grocery list in Spanish and then role-play with a partner or even by yourself in front of the mirror. Here’s an example dialogue:

Cliente: Excuse me, ¿dónde están los productos de panadería? Empleado: Están en el pasillo tres, al lado de los productos lácteos. Cliente: Gracias, y ¿cuánto cuesta este pan? Empleado: Cuesta dos euros y cincuenta céntimos. Shopping for Clothes

Shopping for clothes in Spanish involves a different set of vocabulary and phrases. The key is to feel comfortable asking for the right size, style, and color. Here are some useful expressions:

Estoy buscando una camisa azul. (I am looking for a blue shirt.)
¿Tienen esta en talla M? (Do you have this in medium size?)
¿Cuándo es la próxima rebaja? (When is the next sale?)
¿Dónde están los probadores? (Where are the fitting rooms?)

When you’re trying clothes on, you might need to give and receive opinions. Practice this sample interaction to get a better grip:

Cliente: Disculpe, ¿dónde están los probadores? Empleado: Están al fondo del pasillo, a la derecha. Cliente: Muy bien, gracias. ¿Puedo probarme estos pantalones? Empleado: Claro que sí, adelante. Shopping for Electronics

Buying electronics can be more complex, given the technical nature of the products. Familiarizing yourself with specific terms and questions is critical to make informed choices:

Some handy phrases include:

¿Cuáles son las especificaciones técnicas de este producto? (What are the technical specifications of this product?)
¿Viene con garantía? (Does it come with a warranty?)
¿Tienen este modelo en stock? (Do you have this model in stock?)
Estoy buscando unos auriculares con buena cancelación de ruido. (I am looking for noise-cancelling headphones.)

Here’s a practice scenario:

Cliente: Hola, ¿tienen este modelo de portátil en stock? Empleado: Voy a comprobarlo en el sistema. Dame un momento. Cliente: Claro, también me gustaría saber si tiene garantía. Empleado: Sí, viene con una garantía de un año. Negotiating at a Market

Haggling and negotiating prices is often a cultural practice in markets and smaller shops in Spanish-speaking countries. The ability to negotiate can help you get better deals and enhances your cultural experience.

Essential phrases include:

¿Cuál es el mejor precio que me puede dar? (What’s the best price you can give me?)
¿Me puede hacer un descuento? (Can you give me a discount?)
Voy a pensarlo. (I’ll think about it.)
Lo quiero, pero está muy caro. (I like it, but it’s too expensive.)

Role-playing with these phrases will help you become more comfortable with the process of negotiation:

Cliente: ¡Hola! ¿Cuál es el mejor precio que me puede dar para esta bufanda? Vendedor: Cuesta veinte euros. Cliente: ¿Me puede hacer un descuento? La he visto más barata en otro lugar. Vendedor: De acuerdo, se la dejo en quince euros. Returning or Exchanging Items

Returning or exchanging items can sometimes be a delicate matter but knowing how to articulate your needs clearly can make the process smoother. Here are some helpful phrases:

Quisiera devolver este artículo. (I would like to return this item.)
¿Puedo cambiarlo por otro tamaño? (Can I exchange it for a different size?)
Este artículo está defectuoso. (This item is defective.)
¿Cuál es su política de devoluciones? (What is your return policy?)

Practice this conversation to get it down:

Cliente: Disculpe, quisiera devolver este artículo. Empleado: ¿Puedo saber cuál es el motivo de la devolución? Cliente: Está defectuoso y me gustaría cambiarlo por otro. Empleado: Entendido. ¿Tiene el recibo de compra? Common Idioms and Expressions

Idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms add a layer of authenticity to your conversations. While navigating shopping scenarios, you might hear or want to use some of these expressions:

¡Está tirado de precio! (It’s a steal!)
Déjeme pensarlo. (Let me think about it.)
Este me viene como anillo al dedo. (This fits me like a glove.)
No voy a gastar un dineral. (I’m not going to spend a fortune.)

Using these idioms in your practice conversations can help you become more fluent and sound more like a native speaker:

Cliente: Este abrigo está tirado de precio. No puedo dejarlo escapar. Amigo: Sí, te viene como anillo al dedo. Cliente: Déjame pensarlo un momento. Conclusion

Becoming proficient in Spanish shopping conversations entails understanding a variety of phrases, vocabulary, and cultural nuances. By practicing different scenarios—from grocery shopping to haggling at a local market—you are preparing yourself for real-life interactions. Repetition is key, so immerse yourself in role-playing exercises and don’t hesitate to engage in small talk next time you’re in a Spanish-speaking environment.

This guide has provided you with the foundation to tackle various shopping encounters. Remember, the more you practice, the more natural and confident you will feel. Beyond the practical benefits, improving your conversational skills also enriches your travel experiences and helps you connect with locals on a deeper level.

Start incorporating these phrases and scenarios into your daily practice now, and soon you’ll find yourself navigating Spanish-speaking shopping environments with ease. ¡Buena suerte con tu aprendizaje!