Meaning
To be indifferent to something; to not have a preference.
Cultural Background
In Spain, 'Me da igual' is extremely common and not considered rude in casual conversation. It shows that you are 'majo' (nice/easy-going). While 'Me da igual' is used, you will also hear 'Me da lo mismo' or 'Como quieras' (as you wish) to sound slightly more polite. Argentines might use 'Me da lo mismo' frequently, often accompanied by a characteristic shrug and a 'Viste' (You know?).
The Shrug
Pair 'Me da igual' with a slight shoulder shrug to look like a native speaker.
Tone Matters
If you say it too loudly or sharply, it sounds like you are angry. Keep it soft for 'I don't mind'.
Meaning
To be indifferent to something; to not have a preference.
The Shrug
Pair 'Me da igual' with a slight shoulder shrug to look like a native speaker.
Tone Matters
If you say it too loudly or sharply, it sounds like you are angry. Keep it soft for 'I don't mind'.
Add 'me'
Never just say 'Dar igual'. Always include the 'Me' (or te, le, etc.).
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct pronoun for 'I don't mind'.
___ da igual el postre.
We use indirect object pronouns (me, te, le...) with 'dar igual'.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the right way to say 'He doesn't care'.
'Le' is the indirect object pronoun for 'him'.
Match the response to the question.
¿Prefieres ir en tren o en autobús?
'Me da igual' is the perfect response to a choice between two modes of transport.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ¿Te gusta esta chaqueta? B: No mucho, pero ___ da igual porque es barata.
The speaker is talking about their own indifference.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Preference vs. Indifference
Practice Bank
4 exercises___ da igual el postre.
We use indirect object pronouns (me, te, le...) with 'dar igual'.
Choose the right way to say 'He doesn't care'.
'Le' is the indirect object pronoun for 'him'.
¿Prefieres ir en tren o en autobús?
'Me da igual' is the perfect response to a choice between two modes of transport.
A: ¿Te gusta esta chaqueta? B: No mucho, pero ___ da igual porque es barata.
The speaker is talking about their own indifference.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNot usually. It's a standard way to express lack of preference. However, context and tone are key.
Yes! 'Me daba igual' (It didn't matter to me) or 'Me dio igual'.
'Me da igual' is usually about choices, while 'No me importa' is more about not caring about a situation.
You can say 'Me da exactamente igual' or 'Me da totalmente igual'.
Related Phrases
Me da lo mismo
synonymIt's the same to me.
No me importa
similarIt doesn't matter to me / I don't care.
Me la suda
slangI don't give a damn (vulgar).
