How to Say “I Don’t Understand” in Spanish: A Practical Guide


Learning a new language can be challenging, and one of the first phrases every beginner needs is how to say “I don’t understand.” This simple expression can help you navigate conversations, ask for clarification, and improve your Spanish-speaking confidence. In this guide, we’ll cover different ways to communicate this phrase, cultural tips, and practical examples for everyday situations.

Why Learning “I Don’t Understand” is Important

When speaking Spanish, misunderstandings are common, especially for beginners. Knowing how to say “I don’t understand” helps you:

  • Clarify conversations – ask someone to repeat or explain.

  • Avoid embarrassment – politely indicate you need help.

  • Improve learning – recognizing gaps in understanding accelerates language acquisition.

  • Navigate real-life situations – in restaurants, stores, or travel scenarios, it prevents miscommunication.

Using the correct phrase shows respect and eagerness to learn, which is appreciated in Spanish-speaking cultures.

Common Ways to Say “I Don’t Understand” in Spanish

1. No entiendo

The most direct translation of “I don’t understand.”

  • Example:

    • No entiendo lo que dices. – “I don’t understand what you’re saying.”

2. No comprendo

A slightly more formal version, often used in written or professional contexts.

  • Example:

    • No comprendo las instrucciones. – “I don’t understand the instructions.”

3. No entiendo nada

Use this when you completely don’t understand.

  • Example:

    • Lo siento, no entiendo nada. – “I’m sorry, I don’t understand anything.”

4. No lo entiendo

Emphasizes that you don’t understand a specific thing.

  • Example:

    • No lo entiendo, ¿puedes explicarlo otra vez? – “I don’t understand it, can you explain it again?”

Polite Ways to Ask Someone to Repeat

In addition to stating that you don’t understand, you can politely ask someone to repeat or clarify:

  • ¿Puede repetir, por favor? – “Can you repeat, please?”

  • ¿Puede decirlo de otra manera? – “Can you say it another way?”

  • ¿Cómo? – “What?” (informal, short, used in conversations)

  • ¿Puede explicarlo de nuevo? – “Can you explain it again?”

Combining these with No entiendo makes your communication smoother and polite.

Tips for Using “I Don’t Understand” Naturally

  1. Use body language – a confused look or a slight shrug complements your words.

  2. Speak clearly – repeat your phrase slowly if necessary.

  3. Listen actively – focus on keywords to catch context next time.

  4. Practice variations – alternate between No entiendo and No comprendo to sound more natural.

  5. Stay polite and confident – showing effort and interest is always appreciated.

Example Situations

  • In a classroom:

    • Teacher explains grammar: “No entiendo, ¿puede dar otro ejemplo?” – “I don’t understand, can you give another example?”

  • At a restaurant:

    • Waiter explains a dish: “No lo entiendo, ¿qué contiene?” – “I don’t understand it, what does it contain?”

  • During travel:

    • Asking for directions: “No comprendo, ¿puede mostrarlo en el mapa?” – “I don’t understand, can you show it on the map?”

Conclusion

Mastering the phrase “I don’t understand” in Spanish is essential for beginners and travelers alike. Whether you choose No entiendo, No comprendo, or one of the polite variations, this phrase helps you communicate effectively, avoid confusion, and show respect to Spanish speakers. Pair it with polite follow-up questions and body language, and you’ll navigate conversations with confidence.

Learning this small phrase is a big step toward improving your Spanish fluency and making your interactions smoother and more enjoyable.


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