Meaning
To remove dishes and cutlery from the table after a meal.
Cultural Background
In Spain, 'quitar la mesa' is often delayed by the 'sobremesa', where people stay at the table for up to an hour just talking. It is very common to hear 'levantar la mesa' as a synonym, which literally means 'to lift the table'. Offering to clear the table is a standard sign of good manners (educación) when visiting someone's home.
The 'Sobremesa' Rule
Don't rush to 'quitar la mesa' if you are in Spain; wait for the host to signal the end of the conversation.
Avoid 'Remover'
Never use 'remover' for clearing the table; it sounds like you are stirring the wood!
Meaning
To remove dishes and cutlery from the table after a meal.
The 'Sobremesa' Rule
Don't rush to 'quitar la mesa' if you are in Spain; wait for the host to signal the end of the conversation.
Avoid 'Remover'
Never use 'remover' for clearing the table; it sounds like you are stirring the wood!
Use 'Recoger' for extra points
Using 'recoger la mesa' sounds slightly more natural and native in many parts of Spain.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct verb to complete the sentence: 'Después de comer, tenemos que ____ la mesa.'
Después de comer, tenemos que ____ la mesa.
'Quitar la mesa' is the standard phrase for removing dishes.
Fill in the missing article.
Por favor, ayuda a tu madre a quitar ____ mesa.
'Mesa' is a feminine noun and requires the definite article 'la'.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You are a guest and want to be polite after dinner.
This is the polite way to offer help after a meal.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Ya no tengo hambre. B: Vale, pues ____ la mesa.
The imperative 'quita' is used for a direct command/request to one person.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesDespués de comer, tenemos que ____ la mesa.
'Quitar la mesa' is the standard phrase for removing dishes.
Por favor, ayuda a tu madre a quitar ____ mesa.
'Mesa' is a feminine noun and requires the definite article 'la'.
You are a guest and want to be polite after dinner.
This is the polite way to offer help after a meal.
A: Ya no tengo hambre. B: Vale, pues ____ la mesa.
The imperative 'quita' is used for a direct command/request to one person.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNo, it is neutral. You can use it with friends, family, or even in a restaurant.
Yes, 'quitar los platos' (remove the plates) is also very common and means almost the same thing.
'Quitar' is specifically removing, while 'recoger' implies tidying up and putting things away.
You say 'Ya quité la mesa' (past tense).
It is always 'la mesa' because 'mesa' is feminine.
Yes, though 'levantar la mesa' is a very popular alternative in many Latin American countries.
Related Phrases
Poner la mesa
contrastTo set the table.
Recoger la mesa
synonymTo tidy/clear the table.
Fregar los platos
builds onTo wash the dishes.
