How to Ask Someone to Repeat in Spanish: Polite Phrases for Clear Communication


Learning Spanish can be exciting—but it comes with challenges, especially when you don’t catch what someone said. Asking someone to repeat themselves is a common situation, whether you’re traveling, in a class, or speaking with native speakers.

In this guide, we’ll cover polite Spanish phrases for asking someone to repeat, tips on pronunciation, and cultural notes so you can communicate confidently without feeling embarrassed.

1. Basic Ways to Ask Someone to Repeat

Polite Phrases

  • ¿Puedes repetirlo, por favor? – Can you repeat that, please?

  • ¿Puede repetirlo, por favor? – Can you repeat that? (formal)

  • ¿Cómo dices? – What did you say?

  • ¿Perdón? – Pardon? / Excuse me?

  • ¿Qué dijiste? – What did you say? (informal)

Tip: Adding “por favor” (please) makes your request polite and well-received.

2. Asking for Clarification When You Partially Understand

Sometimes you catch part of the sentence but need clarification:

  • ¿Puedes decir eso otra vez más despacio? – Can you say that again more slowly?

  • ¿Puedes repetir la última parte? – Can you repeat the last part?

  • No entendí muy bien, ¿puedes explicarlo otra vez? – I didn’t understand very well; can you explain it again?

  • ¿Puedes escribirlo, por favor? – Can you write it down, please?

These phrases are useful in classroom settings, business meetings, or casual conversations.

3. Using Formal vs. Informal Phrases

Spanish distinguishes between formal (usted) and informal (tú) forms.

  • Informal (tú): Use with friends, peers, or younger people.

    • Example: “¿Cómo dices?”

  • Formal (usted): Use with elders, teachers, or in professional settings.

    • Example: “¿Puede repetirlo, por favor?”

Choosing the right form shows respect and cultural awareness.

4. Polite Conversation Starters When Asking to Repeat

To make your request smooth and natural, you can preface your question:

  • Disculpa, no escuché bien. – Sorry, I didn’t hear that well.

  • Perdón, ¿puedes repetirlo? – Pardon, can you repeat that?

  • Perdón, estoy aprendiendo español. – Excuse me, I’m learning Spanish.

Adding context makes native speakers more willing to repeat or explain.

5. Tips for Practicing This Skill

  1. Listen Actively – Focus on key words and pronunciation to reduce repetition requests.

  2. Speak Slowly – When responding, articulate your words; it encourages others to do the same.

  3. Use Hand Gestures – Subtle gestures can help clarify meaning.

  4. Practice with Native Speakers – Apps or language exchanges give real-life experience.

  5. Repeat After Them – Repeating what you heard confirms your understanding:

    • “Entonces, dices que…?” – So, you’re saying that…?

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping “por favor” – Politeness is important in Spanish culture.

  • Using informal phrases with strangers or elders – Can be perceived as rude.

  • Overusing “¿Qué?” – It’s too abrupt; “Perdón?” is much softer.

  • Interrupting while speaking – Wait for a natural pause before asking for repetition.

7. Sample Dialogues

Scenario: At a café

  • You: “Disculpa, no entendí muy bien. ¿Puedes repetirlo, por favor?”

  • Barista: “Claro, quería decir que el café se sirve con leche y azúcar.”

  • You: “¡Ah, gracias!”

Scenario: In a classroom

  • Student: “Perdón, profesor, ¿puede repetir la última frase más despacio?”

  • Teacher: “Por supuesto, la última frase fue…”

These examples show how polite phrasing keeps conversations smooth.

8. Final Thoughts

Asking someone to repeat themselves in Spanish is simple, polite, and essential for learners. Using phrases like:

  • ¿Puedes repetirlo, por favor?

  • ¿Cómo dices?

  • Perdón, estoy aprendiendo español.

…helps you communicate confidently, avoid misunderstandings, and build positive interactions with native speakers.

Remember: it’s better to ask politely than to pretend you understood—native speakers appreciate the effort, and it accelerates your learning.

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