Meaning
Used to check if someone comprehends something.
Cultural Background
In Spain, people are very direct. Using '¿Entiendes?' is common and not usually seen as rude among peers. Mexicans might use '¿Sí me explico?' more often to avoid sounding like they are questioning your intelligence. In Argentina, you will hear '¿Entendés?' with the stress on the last syllable due to 'voseo'.
Watch the Tone
A rising intonation makes it a friendly question. A flat intonation can make it sound like a command.
The 'Usted' Rule
When in doubt, use '¿Entiende?' or '¿Me explico?' to be safe and polite.
Meaning
Used to check if someone comprehends something.
Watch the Tone
A rising intonation makes it a friendly question. A flat intonation can make it sound like a command.
The 'Usted' Rule
When in doubt, use '¿Entiende?' or '¿Me explico?' to be safe and polite.
The Response
If someone asks you this, respond with 'Sí, entiendo' or 'No, no entiendo'.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct informal form to ask a friend if they understand.
Oye, Juan, ¿_______?
'Entiendes' is the informal 'tú' form.
Fill in the missing letters for the stem-changing verb.
¿Ent__ndes lo que digo?
The verb 'entender' changes from E to IE in the present tense.
Match the phrase to the correct level of formality.
Talking to your grandmother.
Use the 'usted' form (Entiende) for elders to show respect.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'La fiesta es a las ocho.' B: '¿A las ocho? Sí, _______.'
The speaker is saying 'I understand', which is 'entiendo'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesOye, Juan, ¿_______?
'Entiendes' is the informal 'tú' form.
¿Ent__ndes lo que digo?
The verb 'entender' changes from E to IE in the present tense.
Talking to your grandmother.
Use the 'usted' form (Entiende) for elders to show respect.
A: 'La fiesta es a las ocho.' B: '¿A las ocho? Sí, _______.'
The speaker is saying 'I understand', which is 'entiendo'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNot inherently, but it can be if used with superiors or in a sharp tone.
'Entender' is more common for everyday things; 'comprender' is deeper, like understanding a person's feelings or a complex theory.
You say 'No entiendo'.
It's better to use '¿Quedó claro?' or '¿Tiene alguna duda?' in professional emails.
It's a common pattern in Spanish called a 'boot verb' or stem-changing verb.
Yes, it is used everywhere Spanish is spoken.
Related Phrases
¿Comprendes?
synonymDo you comprehend?
¿Me sigues?
similarAre you following me?
¿Verdad?
similarRight?
¡Entendido!
builds onUnderstood!
