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A2 conjunction 12 Min. Lesezeit

es decir

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Erklärung es decir in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'es decir' is a 'bonus' phrase that makes you sound much more advanced than you are. At this stage, you are mostly learning simple sentences like 'Yo soy Juan' or 'Me gusta el café.' However, you can use 'es decir' to clarify basic things. For example, if you say 'Mi familia es grande, es decir, tengo cinco hermanos,' you are using the phrase to provide a specific number that explains what 'grande' means to you. It helps you avoid getting stuck when you don't know a complex word; you can say a simple word, then 'es decir,' and then another simple word to make sure the person understands you. It's like a safety net for your limited vocabulary. You don't need to worry about the grammar because it never changes—it's always just 'es decir.' Just remember to pause slightly before and after saying it, as if you are putting it in little brackets. It is most useful for explaining family relationships, colors, or basic adjectives. Even though it's a 'Level A2' word, using it at A1 shows you are thinking about how to be clear in your communication, which is the most important part of learning a new language.

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At the A2 level, 'es decir' becomes a very helpful tool for describing your daily life, your job, and your surroundings with more precision. At this level, you are expected to handle simple, routine tasks and exchange information. 'Es decir' allows you to expand on your thoughts without needing complex relative clauses. For instance, instead of trying to remember how to use 'lo cual significa que' (which means that), you can simply use 'es decir.' Example: 'Trabajo en una oficina, es decir, paso mucho tiempo sentado.' It helps you connect two simple ideas to make a more complex-sounding sentence. You will also start to notice this phrase in simple readings and listening exercises. It's important to start paying attention to the punctuation at this stage—seeing the commas around 'es decir' will help you understand the structure of the Spanish sentence. You should also begin to distinguish 'es decir' from 'o sea.' While your friends might say 'o sea' all the time, using 'es decir' in your Spanish class or in a basic email to a teacher will show that you are aiming for a higher level of correctness. It's a key part of moving from 'basic' Spanish to 'functional' Spanish.

At the B1 level, you are becoming an 'independent user' of Spanish. You can now describe experiences, events, dreams, and ambitions. 'Es decir' is essential here for defining your opinions and explaining your reasons. When you are asked to speak for a minute or two on a topic, 'es decir' acts as a logical connector that gives you time to think while you rephrase an idea. For example: 'Creo que el transporte público es eficiente; es decir, llega a tiempo y es barato.' Notice the use of the semicolon here—this is a B1 level skill. You are no longer just connecting words; you are connecting full thoughts. You will also start using the variation 'es decir, que...' which is very common in spoken Spanish to summarize a point. B1 learners should also be careful not to overuse 'es decir' as a filler word. At this stage, your vocabulary is growing, so you should only use it when a clarification is actually necessary. It's also a good time to start comparing 'es decir' with 'en otras palabras' to see which one fits your sentence better. 'Es decir' is usually for direct definitions, while 'en otras palabras' is for more creative rephrasing. Mastery of 'es decir' at this level significantly improves your fluency score in exams like the DELE.

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At the B2 level, you are expected to understand the main ideas of complex texts and produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects. 'Es decir' is a vital component of your 'cohesion and coherence' toolkit. At this stage, you should use it to explain technical terms or abstract concepts. If you are writing an essay about the environment, you might write: 'La biodiversidad está en peligro; es decir, muchas especies están desapareciendo.' Here, 'es decir' provides the necessary evidence or clarification for a broad statement. You should also be comfortable using 'es decir' in formal debates. It allows you to 'pin down' your opponent's argument or clarify your own position so there is no misunderstanding. You should be aware of the pragmatic difference between 'es decir' and 'esto es' (very formal) or 'o sea' (informal). A B2 student knows that using 'o sea' in a formal presentation is a mistake, whereas 'es decir' is always a safe and professional choice. You should also be able to use 'es decir' to introduce a restriction or a specific condition: 'Todos pueden venir, es decir, todos los que tengan invitación.' This level of precision is exactly what examiners look for in B2 level writing and speaking.

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At the C1 level, you are approaching near-native fluency. You can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts and recognize implicit meaning. For a C1 learner, 'es decir' is no longer just a tool for clarity; it is a tool for stylistic precision and rhetorical effect. You use it to guide the reader through a complex logical argument, ensuring that every nuance is captured. At this level, you should be able to distinguish between 'es decir,' 'esto es,' 'a saber,' and 'dicho de otro modo' with ease, choosing the one that best fits the rhythm and register of your prose. You might use 'es decir' to introduce a 'reformulación parafrástica'—where the second term is a perfect synonym used for emphasis. For example: 'Su actitud fue imperdonable, es decir, nefasta.' Here, 'nefasta' adds a stronger emotional weight than 'imperdonable.' You also use 'es decir' to manage 'discourse density,' breaking up heavy information into digestible parts. In C1 level listening, you will notice how native speakers use 'es decir' to pivot or to subtly change the focus of a conversation. You should be able to do the same, using the phrase to maintain control over the direction of your speech. It becomes an essential part of your 'sophisticated' Spanish identity.

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At the C2 level, you have mastered the Spanish language to the point where you can understand virtually everything heard or read. 'Es decir' is now a precision instrument in your linguistic arsenal. You use it with total spontaneity and flexibility. In academic or literary writing, you might use it to create a specific logical flow, perhaps even using it in its more archaic or highly formal senses. You understand the deep linguistic history of the phrase as a 'marcador de reformulación' and can analyze its use in classical Spanish literature versus modern journalism. At this level, you might use 'es decir' to introduce a philosophical equivalence that challenges the reader: 'El ser es, es decir, la nada no existe.' Here, the phrase is doing heavy ontological lifting. You are also perfectly attuned to the 'prosodic contour' of the phrase—the specific way it is intoned in different Spanish-speaking regions to signal different levels of certainty or irony. You can use it to be pedantic, to be helpful, or to be incredibly concise. For a C2 speaker, 'es decir' is not a phrase you 'use'; it is a part of the logical architecture of your thought process in Spanish. You can effortlessly switch to 'id est' in a Latin-influenced legal text or to a quick 'es decir' in a high-speed business negotiation, always with perfect timing and social appropriateness.

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es decir in 30 Sekunden

A versatile Spanish connector meaning 'that is' or 'in other words,' used to clarify or define a previous statement in both formal and informal contexts.
Essential for clear communication, it acts as a bridge between a complex term and its simpler explanation, ensuring the listener understands the speaker's intent.
Grammatically invariable and typically surrounded by commas, it is more formal than 'o sea' but less rigid than academic alternatives like 'esto es.'
Widely heard in academic, professional, and media settings across the Spanish-speaking world to provide precision and resolve potential ambiguities in discourse.

The Spanish phrase es decir is one of the most fundamental and versatile connectors in the Spanish language. Translated literally, it means 'it is to say,' but its functional equivalent in English is 'that is to say,' 'in other words,' or 'namely.' Linguistically, it serves as a reformulative connector, specifically an explicative one. Its primary purpose is to introduce a second statement that clarifies, defines, or restricts the meaning of the first statement. In the hierarchy of Spanish discourse markers, it occupies a middle ground of formality; it is significantly more formal than the colloquial o sea, yet slightly less rigid than the academic esto es.

Semantic Function: It signals to the listener that the speaker is about to provide a more precise or simpler version of what was just mentioned. It prevents ambiguity and ensures the communicative goal is met.
Pragmatic Utility: Speakers use it to manage the flow of information. If they realize a term was too technical or a concept too abstract, 'es decir' acts as a bridge to a more accessible explanation.
Syntactic Role: It usually functions as a parenthetical element. This means it is typically surrounded by commas or follows a semicolon, marking a pause in the sentence structure.

La empresa está en números rojos; es decir, no tiene dinero.

Translation: The company is in the red; that is to say, it has no money.

In everyday speech, 'es decir' is the hallmark of a clear communicator. While younger speakers might default to 'o sea' in every situation, a speaker who uses 'es decir' appropriately demonstrates a higher level of linguistic awareness and educational background. It is ubiquitous in news broadcasts, legal documents, and academic writing because it leaves no room for doubt. For example, if a doctor says, 'Usted padece de hipertensión, es decir, tiene la presión arterial alta,' they are using the phrase to translate medical jargon into common language. This 'translation' function within the same language is the core of its utility. Furthermore, 'es decir' is invariable. Unlike verbs that change based on the subject, 'es decir' remains constant regardless of whether you are talking about one person, many people, the past, or the future. It is a fixed formula that provides stability to the sentence structure.

Vivimos en una democracia, es decir, el pueblo elige a sus líderes.

Translation: We live in a democracy, in other words, the people choose their leaders.

Historically, 'es decir' stems from the combination of the third-person singular of 'ser' (to be) and the infinitive 'decir' (to say). This construction creates a sense of objective definition. It is not just the speaker saying something; it is a statement of fact about the equivalence between two expressions. This is why it feels more authoritative than 'quiero decir' (I mean to say), which is more subjective and personal. When you use 'es decir,' you are asserting that Statement A and Statement B are logically identical.

Mañana es feriado, es decir, no tenemos que trabajar.

El agua está a cien grados, es decir, está hirviendo.

Él es mi progenitor, es decir, mi padre biológico.

Mastering 'es decir' requires understanding its punctuation and its logical placement within a thought. It almost always sits between two ideas that share the same meaning but differ in complexity or specificity. Think of it as an '=' sign in a mathematical equation. Statement A = Statement B. The most common error for English speakers is treating it like a standard verb phrase rather than a fixed conjunction.

Punctuation Rule 1: When 'es decir' appears in the middle of a sentence to clarify a noun, it should be set off by commas: 'Su primo, es decir, el hijo de su tía, vendrá hoy.'
Punctuation Rule 2: When it connects two independent clauses, use a semicolon before it and a comma after it: 'No hay más entradas; es decir, el concierto está agotado.'

La prueba fue negativa, es decir, no estás enfermo.

One of the most powerful uses of 'es decir' is in the construction es decir, que.... Adding 'que' allows you to introduce a full clause that explains the implication of the previous statement. This is very common when summarizing a long explanation. For example, 'El jefe dijo que el presupuesto se ha reducido a la mitad y que no habrá nuevas contrataciones este año; es decir, que estamos en crisis.' Here, 'es decir, que' serves to synthesize the facts into a single conclusion. It is also important to note that 'es decir' does not change for tense. Even if you are talking about the past, you do not say 'era decir.' It remains 'es decir' because the act of clarifying is happening in the present moment of the discourse.

Llegó a las doce de la noche, es decir, a medianoche.

In terms of sentence position, 'es decir' is almost never the first word of a sentence unless it is responding directly to a previous speaker's question. For instance, if someone asks, '¿Qué quieres decir con eso?', you might respond, 'Es decir, que no me gusta la idea.' Otherwise, it requires a preceding context to refer back to. It acts as a retrospective marker. It looks backward to the previous word or phrase and offers a translation for it. In professional emails, using 'es decir' can make your writing look more polished. Instead of saying 'No puedo ir porque tengo mucho trabajo,' you might say 'Tengo varios compromisos previos; es decir, me será imposible asistir.'

Clarifying Objects: 'Compró un vehículo híbrido, es decir, uno que usa gasolina y electricidad.'
Clarifying Times: 'Nos vemos el próximo lunes, es decir, el día quince.'

El examen es trimestral, es decir, cada tres meses.

Es un animal nocturno, es decir, duerme de día.

If you walk into a university lecture hall in Madrid, Mexico City, or Buenos Aires, you will hear 'es decir' constantly. It is the lifeblood of academic discourse. Professors use it to ensure their students grasp complex theories by providing 'translations' into simpler terms. However, its use is not limited to the ivory tower. You will hear it in news reports where journalists explain economic data: 'El PIB ha bajado un dos por ciento, es decir, la economía se está contrayendo.' It is the phrase of choice for anyone who wants to sound precise, professional, and clear.

In a corporate setting, 'es decir' is used during presentations to emphasize key points. A manager might say, 'Nuestra prioridad es la retención de clientes; es decir, no podemos permitirnos perder a nadie.' In this context, 'es decir' acts as a signal of importance. It tells the listeners, 'Pay attention, I am about to define our strategy.' It is also common in legal and medical contexts. A lawyer might explain a contract term to a client using 'es decir' to bridge the gap between 'legalese' and common Spanish. Similarly, in a doctor's office, it is used to explain symptoms or treatments.

La sentencia es firme, es decir, no se puede apelar.

Commonly heard in legal contexts.

Interestingly, you will also hear 'es decir' in thoughtful conversations between friends. While 'o sea' is the default filler for many, 'es decir' is used when the speaker is making a sincere effort to be understood regarding a complex emotion or a specific plan. For example, if a friend is explaining their complicated relationship, they might say, 'Siento que no me valora, es decir, que mis esfuerzos son invisibles para él.' Here, 'es decir' introduces a deep, clarifying insight into their feelings. It shows a level of maturity in the conversation that 'o sea' might lack.

Television and Media: News anchors use it to explain international events to a general audience. It helps in making global news relatable.
Podcasts and Interviews: Interviewers often use it to rephrase a guest's answer to ensure the audience understood: '¿Es decir, que usted no apoya la nueva ley?'

In literature and formal essays, 'es decir' is a vital tool for authors to guide the reader through their logic. If an author introduces a philosophical concept, they will often follow it with 'es decir' to provide a concrete example or a more descriptive definition. It acts as a guidepost, ensuring the reader doesn't get lost in abstract thought. In summary, whether you are in a boardroom, a classroom, or watching the evening news, 'es decir' is the linguistic tool that ensures everyone is on the same page.

El resultado es nulo, es decir, no tiene validez legal.

Even though 'es decir' is relatively straightforward, learners often fall into several traps. The most frequent mistake is using it as a direct translation for 'I mean' when correcting a slip of the tongue. In English, if you say 'I want the red one, I mean the blue one,' you are using 'I mean' as a self-correction marker. In Spanish, 'es decir' is for clarification, not correction. For self-correction, you should use mejor dicho (better said) or digo (I say/mean).

Mistake: Self-Correction: Incorrect: 'Voy el martes, es decir, el miércoles.' (Unless you are defining Tuesday as Wednesday, which is impossible). Correct: 'Voy el martes, mejor dicho, el miércoles.'
Mistake: Overuse as a Filler: Many learners use 'es decir' when they are simply stalling for time. This makes the speech sound unnaturally formal and repetitive. Use 'pues' or 'eh' for filler, and save 'es decir' for when you actually need to clarify.

❌ Tengo hambre, es decir, quiero pizza.

This is a misuse because pizza is an example, not a definition of hunger. Use 'por ejemplo' instead.

Another common error is the omission of commas. Because 'es decir' is a parenthetical comment, it requires a pause in speech and a comma in writing. Writing 'El perro es decir el animal está ahí' is grammatically incorrect and confusing. It should be 'El perro, es decir, el animal, está ahí.' Furthermore, learners often forget that 'es decir' cannot be pluralized. Even if you are clarifying a plural subject, you never say 'son decir.' For example, 'Mis hermanos, es decir, los hijos de mis padres...' is correct. 'Mis hermanos, son decir...' is completely wrong.

Lastly, be careful with the register. Using 'es decir' in a very informal setting, like a rowdy party with close friends, might make you sound a bit stiff or academic. In those cases, 'o sea' is much more natural. Conversely, using 'o sea' in a job interview or a formal presentation can make you sound less professional. Choosing between 'es decir' and 'o sea' is a key skill in mastering Spanish pragmatics. Learners often stick to one and use it in all contexts, which prevents them from sounding like a native speaker who adapts their language to the situation.

✅ El curso es asincrónico, es decir, puedes hacerlo a tu ritmo.

❌ Ella es mi hermana, es decir, se llama Ana.

Misuse: Her name is not a definition of her being a sister. Use 'y' or 'que'.

While 'es decir' is the gold standard for clarification, Spanish offers a rich palette of alternatives that allow for subtle shifts in meaning and tone. Understanding these differences is what separates an intermediate learner from an advanced speaker. The most common alternative is o sea, which is extremely frequent in spoken Spanish. However, it is much more informal and can sometimes be used as a filler word similar to 'like' in English. In a professional or academic context, you should generally prefer 'es decir'.

O sea: Very informal. Used in daily conversation. 'Tengo clase a las ocho, o sea, tengo que madrugar.'
Esto es: Highly formal and academic. Often used in scientific or legal definitions. 'La fotosíntesis, esto es, el proceso por el cual las plantas...'
En otras palabras: Equivalent to 'in other words.' Used when the second statement is significantly different in wording from the first.

No tengo liquidez, en otras palabras, no tengo efectivo ahora mismo.

Another useful phrase is dicho de otro modo (put another way) or dicho de otra forma. These are excellent for writing when you want to avoid repeating 'es decir' multiple times in a single paragraph. They suggest a complete rephrasing of the idea for better clarity. If you are specifically correcting yourself because you used the wrong word, mejor dicho is the correct choice. It implies that the second version is 'better' or more accurate than the first. For example: 'Fuimos a la playa, mejor dicho, intentamos ir, pero llovió.' Here, 'es decir' would be wrong because 'trying to go' is not a definition of 'going.'

Finally, consider vale decir. This is more common in Southern Cone countries like Argentina and Chile. It functions exactly like 'es decir' but has a slightly different stylistic flavor. In very technical writing, you might also see id est (abbreviated as i.e.), which is Latin but used in Spanish just as it is in English. However, 'es decir' remains the most versatile and widely understood option across all Spanish-speaking regions. By learning when to use each of these, you can control the tone and precision of your Spanish with much greater mastery.

Es un gas noble, esto es, un elemento con baja reactividad.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The verb 'decir' comes from the Indo-European root *deik-, which meant 'to show' or 'to point out'. This explains why 'es decir' is used to 'point out' the meaning of something.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /es ðeˈθiɾ/

US /es ðeˈsiɾ/

The primary stress is on the last syllable of the second word: de-CIR.

Reimt sich auf

vivir morir sentir venir dormir mentir partir reír

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing the 'd' too hard like an English 'd'. It should be soft.
Pronouncing 'es' like 'ez' (with a 'z' sound). It is always a sharp 's'.
Over-rolling the 'r' at the end. It should be a single tap.
Merging the two words into one 'esdecir' without a slight break.
Pronouncing the 'i' like the 'i' in 'sit' instead of 'see'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Very easy to recognize in text as a signal for a definition.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires correct punctuation (commas) to look natural.

Sprechen 3/5

Easy to say, but requires practice to use instead of 'o sea'.

Hören 1/5

One of the easiest connectors to hear and understand.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

es decir que pero porque

Als Nächstes lernen

o sea esto es en otras palabras mejor dicho sin embargo

Fortgeschritten

por consiguiente no obstante así pues en resumidas cuentas a saber

Wichtige Grammatik

Use of commas with parenthetical connectors.

El perro, es decir, el animal, corre.

Difference between 'es decir' and 'o sea'.

Formal: es decir. Informal: o sea.

Use of 'que' after connectors to introduce a clause.

Es decir, que no viene.

Invariability of fixed phrases.

Siempre es 'es decir', nunca 'son decir'.

Semicolon use before long connectors.

No tengo tiempo; es decir, no puedo ir.

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Beispiele nach Niveau

Tengo dos hermanos, es decir, somos tres hijos.

I have two brothers, that is, we are three children.

Shows simple clarification of a number.

Es mi madre, es decir, la esposa de mi padre.

She is my mother, in other words, my father's wife.

Clarifies a family relationship.

El coche es rojo, es decir, del color de un tomate.

The car is red, that is, the color of a tomato.

Uses a simple comparison for clarification.

Hoy es lunes, es decir, el primer día de la semana.

Today is Monday, in other words, the first day of the week.

Defines a common noun.

Vivo en Madrid, es decir, en la capital de España.

I live in Madrid, that is, in the capital of Spain.

Adds geographical information.

Soy vegetariano, es decir, no como carne.

I am a vegetarian, in other words, I don't eat meat.

Explains a personal identity/habit.

El agua está fría, es decir, muy fría.

The water is cold, that is, very cold.

Used for emphasis/specification.

Es un regalo, es decir, es gratis.

It's a gift, in other words, it's free.

Clarifies the cost of something.

El examen es a las ocho, es decir, muy temprano.

The exam is at eight, that is to say, very early.

Clarifies a time with an adjective.

Es un hotel de lujo, es decir, tiene cinco estrellas.

It's a luxury hotel, in other words, it has five stars.

Defines 'luxury' with a specific detail.

La tienda cierra a mediodía, es decir, a las doce.

The store closes at noon, that is, at twelve.

Clarifies the term 'mediodía'.

No tengo dinero, es decir, estoy sin blanca.

I have no money, in other words, I'm broke.

Introduces a common idiom (sin blanca).

Mi perro es un cachorro, es decir, tiene solo tres meses.

My dog is a puppy, that is, he's only three months old.

Specifies the meaning of 'puppy'.

El vuelo es directo, es decir, sin escalas.

The flight is direct, in other words, without layovers.

Explains a travel term.

Es una zona peatonal, es decir, no pueden pasar coches.

It's a pedestrian zone, that is, cars cannot pass.

Defines a urban term.

La comida es picante, es decir, tiene mucho chile.

The food is spicy, in other words, it has a lot of chili.

Explains a flavor profile.

El contrato es temporal, es decir, solo dura seis meses.

The contract is temporary, that is, it only lasts six months.

Clarifies a professional term.

Es una persona introvertida, es decir, prefiere estar sola.

He is an introverted person, in other words, he prefers to be alone.

Defines a personality trait.

La reunión se pospuso; es decir, será la próxima semana.

The meeting was postponed; that is, it will be next week.

Uses a semicolon to separate clauses.

El coche es ecológico, es decir, no contamina el aire.

The car is ecological, in other words, it doesn't pollute the air.

Clarifies an environmental concept.

Es un trabajo remoto, es decir, que trabajo desde casa.

It's a remote job, in other words, I work from home.

Uses 'es decir, que' to introduce a clause.

La ley es ambigua, es decir, no está clara.

The law is ambiguous, that is to say, it is not clear.

Defines an abstract adjective.

Estamos en otoño, es decir, las hojas están cayendo.

We are in autumn, in other words, the leaves are falling.

Connects a season to its characteristic.

El precio es neto, es decir, incluye todos los impuestos.

The price is net, that is, it includes all taxes.

Clarifies a financial term.

Es una medida paliativa, es decir, que solo alivia el síntoma.

It's a palliative measure, in other words, it only relieves the symptom.

Uses 'que' to explain a medical term's effect.

La oferta es vinculante, es decir, no se puede retirar.

The offer is binding, that is to say, it cannot be withdrawn.

Explains a legal concept.

El autor utiliza un lenguaje arcaico, es decir, palabras antiguas.

The author uses archaic language, in other words, old words.

Clarifies a literary style.

Es un sistema jerárquico, es decir, hay niveles de mando.

It's a hierarchical system, that is, there are levels of command.

Defines a structural concept.

La empresa es solvente, es decir, puede pagar sus deudas.

The company is solvent, in other words, it can pay its debts.

Clarifies a business term.

Hubo un consenso general, es decir, todos estuvieron de acuerdo.

There was a general consensus, that is, everyone agreed.

Explains a collective outcome.

Es una enfermedad asintomática, es decir, no presenta síntomas.

It's an asymptomatic disease, in other words, it shows no symptoms.

Defines a scientific term.

El proyecto es viable, es decir, que se puede realizar.

The project is viable, that is, it can be carried out.

Clarifies feasibility.

La retórica del político es tautológica, es decir, se repite sin añadir nada nuevo.

The politician's rhetoric is tautological, in other words, it repeats itself without adding anything new.

Clarifies a sophisticated linguistic term.

Es una obra póstuma, es decir, publicada tras la muerte del autor.

It is a posthumous work, that is, published after the author's death.

Defines a specific literary term.

El argumento es falaz, es decir, se basa en una mentira lógica.

The argument is fallacious, in other words, it is based on a logical lie.

Explains a logical concept.

La zona es de difícil acceso, es decir, es prácticamente inalcanzable.

The area is difficult to access, that is to say, it is practically unreachable.

Provides a more extreme synonym for emphasis.

Su comportamiento fue errático, es decir, impredecible y extraño.

His behavior was erratic, in other words, unpredictable and strange.

Expands on a psychological description.

El mercado está saturado, es decir, la oferta supera con creces la demanda.

The market is saturated, that is, supply far exceeds demand.

Clarifies an economic phenomenon.

Es un derecho inalienable, es decir, que no se puede quitar ni renunciar a él.

It is an inalienable right, in other words, it cannot be taken away or given up.

Defines a complex legal/philosophical term.

La pintura es abstracta, es decir, no representa la realidad de forma figurativa.

The painting is abstract, that is, it does not represent reality in a figurative way.

Explains an artistic style.

La ontología estudia el ser en cuanto ser, es decir, la naturaleza de la existencia.

Ontology studies being as being, in other words, the nature of existence.

Clarifies a high-level philosophical concept.

El contrato contiene una cláusula leonina, es decir, una condición abusiva para una de las partes.

The contract contains a leonine clause, that is, an abusive condition for one of the parties.

Defines an obscure legal idiom.

La entropía del sistema está aumentando, es decir, el desorden se vuelve irreversible.

The entropy of the system is increasing, in other words, the disorder is becoming irreversible.

Clarifies a complex scientific principle.

Es un texto hermético, es decir, de muy difícil interpretación para los no iniciados.

It is a hermetic text, that is to say, very difficult to interpret for the uninitiated.

Explains a stylistic/intellectual quality.

La decisión fue unilateral, es decir, tomada sin consultar a los demás implicados.

The decision was unilateral, in other words, taken without consulting the others involved.

Clarifies a procedural term.

La economía se encuentra en una fase de estanflación, es decir, estancamiento con inflación.

The economy is in a phase of stagflation, that is, stagnation with inflation.

Defines a specific macroeconomic term.

El lenguaje es polisémico, es decir, que un mismo signo tiene múltiples significados.

Language is polysemic, in other words, the same sign has multiple meanings.

Clarifies a linguistic concept.

La justicia debe ser imparcial, es decir, ajena a cualquier prejuicio o favoritismo.

Justice must be impartial, that is, foreign to any prejudice or favoritism.

Defines a moral/legal imperative.

Häufige Kollokationen

es decir, que...

o lo que es lo mismo, es decir...

es decir, en resumen

es decir, por ejemplo

es decir, concretamente

es decir, mejor dicho

es decir, en definitiva

es decir, técnicamente

es decir, literalmente

es decir, en esencia

Häufige Phrasen

Es decir poco.

— Used to indicate that what was said is an understatement. 'Decir que es inteligente es decir poco.'

Es muy trabajador, y eso es decir poco.

Es un decir.

— Used to clarify that a previous statement was a figure of speech or not literally true.

¡Me muero de hambre! Bueno, es un decir.

Por así decir.

— Equivalent to 'so to speak.' Used when using a metaphor or an imprecise term.

Él es el cerebro del grupo, por así decir.

Ni que decir tiene.

— Used to say that something is obvious or goes without saying.

Ni que decir tiene que estás invitado a la boda.

Sin decir agua va.

— Used to describe someone doing something suddenly and without warning.

Se fue de la fiesta sin decir agua va.

Diría yo.

— Used to add a personal opinion or a slight clarification at the end of a sentence.

Es un poco caro, diría yo.

Como quien dice.

— Used to mean 'as they say' or 'practically.'

Ya hemos terminado, como quien dice.

Dicho y hecho.

— Used when something is done immediately after it is mentioned.

Dijo que lo arreglaría y, dicho y hecho.

No decir ni pío.

— To not say a single word or to keep completely silent.

Se quedó allí sin decir ni pío.

Por decir algo.

— Used when the speaker is just giving an example or making a suggestion without being sure.

Podríamos ir al cine, por decir algo.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

es decir vs o sea

Learners use 'o sea' in formal writing where 'es decir' is required.

es decir vs quiero decir

Learners use 'es decir' to correct a mistake, but 'quiero decir' or 'mejor dicho' is for correction.

es decir vs es para decir

This is a literal translation of 'it's for saying' and is not a clarifying connector.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Es decir y no acabar."

— To have so much to say about something that it seems endless.

De sus problemas hay para decir y no acabar.

informal

"¡Qué me dices!"

— An expression of surprise or disbelief, like 'You don't say!' or 'Really?'

¿Se casan? ¡Qué me dices!

informal

"Dime con quién andas y te diré quién eres."

— A proverb meaning that a person is judged by the company they keep.

No me gusta su nuevo grupo de amigos; dime con quién andas...

proverbial

"Decir las verdades del barquero."

— To tell someone the blunt, harsh truth to their face.

Le dije las verdades del barquero y se enfadó.

colloquial

"No decir esta boca es mía."

— To remain silent when one should speak or participate.

Todos opinaron, pero él no dijo esta boca es mía.

colloquial

"Decir algo por la boca chica."

— To say something without really meaning it or without conviction.

Me invitó a su casa, pero lo dijo por la boca chica.

colloquial

"Ese es otro cantar."

— Used to say that a topic is a completely different matter (literally 'that's another song').

Si hablamos de dinero, ese es otro cantar.

colloquial

"Hablar por hablar."

— To talk just for the sake of talking, without having anything important to say.

No le hagas caso, está hablando por hablar.

informal

"No tener pelos en la lengua."

— To be very direct and honest, even if it's rude.

Ella no tiene pelos en la lengua para decir lo que piensa.

colloquial

"A buen entendedor, pocas palabras bastan."

— A proverb meaning that a wise person doesn't need a long explanation.

Ya sabes lo que opino; a buen entendedor...

proverbial

Leicht verwechselbar

es decir vs mejor dicho

Both clarify something.

'Es decir' means A=B. 'Mejor dicho' means B is more accurate than A.

Es mi primo, mejor dicho, mi hermano.

es decir vs o sea

Both mean 'that is'.

'O sea' is very informal and often used as a filler. 'Es decir' is more formal and precise.

Llego tarde, o sea, no me esperes.

es decir vs esto es

Both mean 'that is'.

'Esto es' is strictly for definitions in formal writing.

Un triángulo, esto es, un polígono de tres lados.

es decir vs por ejemplo

Both add information.

'Es decir' gives a definition. 'Por ejemplo' gives one case out of many.

Me gustan las frutas, por ejemplo, la manzana.

es decir vs a saber

Both introduce details.

'A saber' is used only to list specific items in a group.

Compré tres cosas, a saber: pan, leche y huevos.

Satzmuster

[Noun] es [Adjective], es decir, [Simple Definition].

El sol es amarillo, es decir, de color oro.

[Activity], es decir, [Explanation of frequency/time].

Corro cada día, es decir, de lunes a domingo.

[Opinion]; es decir, [Reasoning].

Es una mala idea; es decir, vamos a perder dinero.

[Technical Term], es decir, [General Definition].

Es una reacción endotérmica, es decir, que absorbe calor.

[Abstract Concept], es decir, [Specific Instance].

La justicia es ciega, es decir, no mira el estatus social.

[Complex Argument], es decir, [Philosophical Equivalence].

La libertad es responsabilidad, es decir, somos dueños de nuestros actos.

No [Action A], es decir, [Action B].

No como carne, es decir, soy vegetariano.

[Statement], es decir, que [Consequence].

No hay luz, es decir, que no podemos ver nada.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

el dicho (saying)

el decir (the act of saying/style)

la dicción (diction)

el dictamen (verdict)

Verben

decir (to say)

predecir (to predict)

contradecir (to contradict)

bendecir (to bless)

maldecir (to curse)

Adjektive

dicho (said/above-mentioned)

decible (sayable)

indecible (unspeakable)

dicente (saying/speaker)

Verwandt

el portavoz (spokesperson)

la palabra (word)

el discurso (speech)

la charla (chat)

la oración (sentence)

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So verwendest du es

frequency

Very high in all professional and educational Spanish contexts.

Häufige Fehler

Using 'es decir' to correct a wrong word. → Use 'mejor dicho'.
'Es decir' is for clarifying the same idea. If you change the idea, use 'mejor dicho'.
Omitting commas. → Place commas around the phrase.
Without commas, the sentence structure becomes confusing and grammatically incorrect.
Using 'es decir' when giving an example. → Use 'por ejemplo'.
'Es decir' provides a definition or equivalence; 'por ejemplo' provides one instance of many.
Pluralizing the phrase to 'son decir'. → Always use 'es decir'.
It is a fixed discourse marker and does not conjugate with the subject.
Using 'o sea' in formal essays. → Use 'es decir' or 'esto es'.
'O sea' is considered too informal for academic or professional writing.

Tipps

Comma Placement

Always remember the commas! 'Es decir' is a parenthetical phrase, meaning the sentence should still make sense if you remove it and the words following it. The commas act like brackets.

Avoid Repetition

If you are writing a long essay, don't use 'es decir' every time. Mix it up with 'en otras palabras' or 'dicho de otro modo' to keep your writing interesting.

Pause for Effect

When speaking, a slight pause before 'es decir' helps the listener realize you are about to simplify or clarify your point. It makes you sound more thoughtful.

Professionalism

Use 'es decir' in job interviews. It makes you sound precise and professional, whereas 'o sea' can make you sound younger or less serious.

Definition Tool

If you don't know the word for something, use a simpler word, say 'es decir,' and then describe it. It's a great way to keep a conversation going.

Signal Word

Treat 'es decir' as a signal that the most important or clearest part of the sentence is coming up. If you missed the first part, the second part will explain it.

Semicolon Use

For better flow in long sentences, use a semicolon before 'es decir'. This separates the two main ideas more clearly than a simple comma.

The Equals Sign

Mentally replace 'es decir' with '='. If the two sides of the phrase aren't equal, you should probably use a different connector like 'pero' or 'por ejemplo'.

Know Your Audience

Use 'o sea' with friends, 'es decir' with bosses, and 'esto es' with professors. Matching your register to your audience is a key fluency skill.

No Tense Changes

Even if the rest of your sentence is in the past or future, 'es decir' stays exactly as it is. It never becomes 'era decir' or 'será decir'.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'es decir' as 'S. D.' - 'Simple Definition'. When you need to give a Simple Definition, use 'es decir'.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine an equals sign (=) floating between two words. The equals sign is 'es decir'. It connects a hard word to an easy word.

Word Web

Aclarar Explicar Definir Reformular Simplificar Traducir Precisar Conectar

Herausforderung

Try to use 'es decir' three times in your next Spanish conversation to explain a word you think the other person might not know. This will build your confidence.

Wortherkunft

From the Latin 'est dicere'. 'Est' is the third-person singular present indicative of 'esse' (to be), and 'dicere' is the infinitive 'to say'.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Literally 'it is to say', which evolved into a fixed expression used for clarifying a previous statement.

Romance (Latin origin).

Kultureller Kontext

There are no major sensitivities, but overusing it can make you sound pedantic or like you think the listener isn't smart enough to understand you.

English speakers often use 'I mean' in place of 'es decir', but they must be careful because 'I mean' is often used to correct a mistake, whereas 'es decir' is only for clarification.

Don Quixote: Cervantes uses various clarifying markers to explain the archaic knightly terms. Modern Spanish News (RTVE/CNN en Español): 'Es decir' is heard in almost every broadcast. Academic papers by Ortega y Gasset: He frequently used 'es decir' to define his philosophical terms.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

At School

Es un examen parcial, es decir, solo de este tema.
Tienes que entregar el ensayo, es decir, el trabajo escrito.
La asistencia es obligatoria, es decir, tienes que venir.
Es una beca completa, es decir, paga todo.

At Work

La reunión es a las diez, es decir, en una hora.
Es un contrato indefinido, es decir, permanente.
El proyecto es prioritario, es decir, es lo más importante.
Trabajamos por objetivos, es decir, no importa el horario.

Medical / Health

Es una dieta hipocalórica, es decir, baja en calorías.
El tratamiento es tópico, es decir, se aplica en la piel.
Es un dolor agudo, es decir, muy fuerte y repentino.
Debe guardar reposo, es decir, no puede moverse mucho.

Shopping / Business

El precio es final, es decir, con IVA incluido.
Es una oferta limitada, es decir, solo por hoy.
No aceptamos devoluciones, es decir, la venta es definitiva.
Es un producto artesanal, es decir, hecho a mano.

Socializing

Viene mi pareja, es decir, mi novio.
La fiesta es informal, es decir, puedes ir en vaqueros.
Nos vemos en el centro, es decir, en la plaza principal.
Es un plan tranquilo, es decir, solo cenar y charlar.

Gesprächseinstiege

"¿Qué quieres decir con eso? Es decir, ¿no estás de acuerdo?"

"¿Podrías explicarlo de otra forma? Es decir, con palabras más simples."

"Entonces, ¿es decir que el plan ha cambiado por completo?"

"Cuando dices que es 'complicado', ¿es decir que no quieres ir?"

"¿Es decir que mañana no trabajas y podemos ir a la playa?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Escribe sobre tu trabajo ideal. Explica tus tareas usando 'es decir' para ser más específico.

Describe a un miembro de tu familia. Usa 'es decir' para aclarar vuestra relación o su carácter.

Reflexiona sobre una meta que tengas. ¿Qué significa exactamente para ti? (Usa 'es decir').

Describe tu ciudad favorita. Usa 'es decir' para explicar por qué es especial o única.

Escribe sobre una noticia reciente. Usa 'es decir' para resumir las consecuencias de lo ocurrido.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Generally, no. It is a connector that needs a previous statement to refer back to. However, you can start a sentence with it if you are responding to someone else's statement to clarify what they meant. For example: '—No voy a ir. —Es decir, ¿que te quedas en casa?'

It is equally common and used in the same way across all Spanish-speaking countries. It is a universal 'Standard Spanish' phrase. In the Southern Cone, you might hear 'vale decir' more often, but 'es decir' is always understood and correct.

Add 'que' when you are introducing a full clause with a conjugated verb, especially when you are explaining the consequence or implication of what was said. 'No hay pan, es decir, que tenemos que ir a la tienda.'

It is always 'es decir'. Adding 'de' is a common mistake for some learners, but it is incorrect in this context.

Only if 'I mean' is used for clarification. If you are using 'I mean' to correct a mistake (e.g., 'I want five, I mean six'), use 'mejor dicho' instead.

No. It is a fixed phrase. Even if you say 'Ellos son médicos, es decir, doctores,' the phrase remains 'es decir'.

The most formal alternative is 'esto es,' which is typically reserved for academic, legal, or scientific definitions.

Usually, you put a comma before and after it: '..., es decir, ...'. If it follows a long sentence, you can use a semicolon before it: '...; es decir, ...'.

Yes, by providing a more intense synonym. 'Fue un desastre, es decir, una catástrofe total.'

No, 'o sea' is perfectly fine in casual conversation with friends. It only becomes 'bad' when used in formal writing or professional situations where it sounds too informal or lazy.

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