You don’t have to tell us why you’re considering it – from sun-drenched plazas and days by the beach to delicious food and a relaxed lifestyle, the appeal of Spain is obvious! Moving abroad is always a big undertaking, especially if you’re moving to a non-English-speaking country. While Spain is full of other expats and the general Spanish population will know enough English to help you answer simple questions, learning a few phrases in Spanish is always a good idea if you’re planning to move there.
Learning some key Spanish phrases before moving to Spain isn’t just a good idea culturally, it’s a good idea logistically. Not only will you be able to mingle with your new neighbours and navigate your way around more easily with some phrases under your belt, but it will also make the entire moving process easier, from paperwork to finding somewhere to live and sorting out your utilities.
But where to start? Here, we’ll teach you the best Spanish phrases to know before moving there!
Is Spanish Difficult to Learn?
For English speakers, Spanish is one of the most accessible languages to learn. There are many shared Latin-based words between the two languages, which follow consistent pronunciation rules. You’ll definitely need to practice, but you’ll likely find Spanish easier to pick up than you think.
You’re likely to feel a bit intimidated when speaking Spanish to a native speaker, but don’t worry – you’re not expected to be an expert overnight, and most people want to be helpful and appreciate newcomers or visitors trying to speak the language.
Tips for Learning Spanish Before Moving
There are a few things you can do to help speed up your absorption of the Spanish language before you move. Here are a few things you can do alongside studying Spanish to learn some helpful phrases before moving.
Watch television or films with Spanish subtitles turned on.
Label everyday objects at home with their Spanish name so they become part of your daily thought process (ie mesa for table, puerta for door and so on).
Practice with a language buddy, using platforms like Tandem or HelloTalk, which allow you to chat with native speakers who want to improve their English.
Listen to beginner podcasts for small lessons you can play while cleaning the house or during your commute.
The Best Spanish Phrases to Learn Before Moving
Let’s start practising some common phrases that will be really beneficial for you to learn. We’ll break these down into different categories, depending on when you might use them, so that you can refer to whichever situation you may encounter.
Greetings & Introductions
Hola – Hello
¿Cómo estás? – How are you?
Buenos días / Buenas tardes / Buenas noches – Good morning / afternoon / evening
Me llamo [Name] – My name is…
Mucho gusto – Nice to meet you
All of these phrases are ideal for starting conversations and making a positive first impression with someone new in Spain.
Simple Courtesies
Perdón / Disculpa – Excuse me / Sorry
Por favor – Please
Gracias – Thank you
De nada – You’re welcome
These Spanish phrases are useful to know when you’re out and about, shopping, dining out or perhaps simply bumping into someone in a crowd.
Common Questions
¿Habla inglés? – Do you speak English?
¿Puede ayudarme? – Can you help me?
¿Dónde está…? – Where is…?
¿Qué significa esto? – What does this mean?
¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
These common questions are very useful when you’re out and about, shopping, exploring or going about your daily routine.
Quick Responses
Sí / No – Yes / No
No entiendo – I don’t understand
Está bien – It’s fine / It’s okay
No sé – I don’t know
Being able to answer simple questions in Spanish is a big help and will also allow you to progress further into conversations, which in turn will help you learn more.
Important Phrases for Your First Few Weeks in Spain
During your first few weeks in Spain, you’re likely to encounter a lot of logistics and admin to help get yourself settled. Here are some key phrases that can help you through the process.
Looking for Accommodation
Estoy buscando un piso. – I’m looking for a flat.
¿Está amueblado? – Is it furnished?
¿Cuánto es el alquiler? – How much is the rent?
¿Cuáles son los gastos incluidos? – What utilities are included?
Using Public Transportation
Un billete, por favor. – One ticket, please.
¿Dónde está la parada de autobús? – Where is the bus stop?
¿Este tren va a…? – Does this train go to…?
Shopping
¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta? – Can I pay by card?
Estoy buscando… – I’m looking for…
¿Cuánto cuesta esto? – How much does this cost?
¿Tiene bolsas? – Do you have bags?
Seeing the Doctor
Necesito ver a un médico. – I need to see a doctor.
¿Dónde está la farmacia más cercana? – Where is the nearest pharmacy?
¿Tienes algo para el dolor? – Do you have something for the pain?
Me duele la cabeza / el estómago / la garganta. – I have a headache / stomach ache / sore throat.
Learning Spanish to Build Your Social Circle
One of the most exciting parts of moving somewhere new is meeting new and interesting people and making friends. Knowing some key phrases in Spanish for getting to know people can really help speed up the process of widening your social circle in Spain.
Conversation Starters
¿Cómo te llamas? – What’s your name?
Soy [Name], encantado/a. – I’m [Name], nice to meet you.
¿Cuánto tiempo llevas aquí? – How long have you been here?
¿De dónde eres? – Where are you from?
Small Talk and Bonding
Hace buen tiempo, ¿no? – Nice weather, isn’t it?
¿Te gusta vivir aquí? – Do you like living here?
¿Qué recomiendas hacer por aquí? – What do you recommend doing around here?
¿Qué haces? / ¿En qué trabajas? – What do you do? / What’s your job?
Making Plans
¿Quieres tomar algo? – Want to grab a drink?
Estoy libre este fin de semana. – I’m free this weekend.
¿Qué te parece si vamos al cine? – How about going to the cinema?
Vamos a cenar. – Let’s go for dinner.
Learning simple Spanish phrases like these before you move will make your daily life feel a lot more manageable, and in the meantime, you can continue to study the language as you go. If you need a bit more help planning your move, learn all about the best places to live in Spain and discover the cost of living in Spain VS the UK. Our specialist international removals team is on hand to help with the practical side of moving to Spain – make sure to get in touch for a quote!
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