Formal

Written by qualified Spanish expert Inma Sánchez BA

Last updated: 2021-02-04

We could say that Spanish is quite a "direct" language in terms of formalities. If we compare it to other languages, like English for example, Spanish day-to-day conversation does not include as many formal words or structures as English does. This doesn't mean that Spanish people are rude - it is just a cultural thing.

However, we do have some expressions or turns of phrase that you can use when you want to add an element of politeness/formality. 

Using "por favor"

Adding the words "por favor" and "gracias" to any request is a first step to add politeness, whichever sentence you've used for your request. 

By simply adding "por favor" you are adding politeness to the sentence.  

Using usted/ustedes 

We use pronouns tú (you singular informal) and vosotros (you plural informal) in general/relaxed conversation. If you need to add formallity to your conversation with someone in a more formal setting or with elderly people, you can use the formal pronouns usted (you singular formal) and ustedes (you plural formal), together with their conjugation in the 3rd person singular and plural of the verb:

Remember that you don't always need to include the pronouns:

Bear in mind that the added level of formality implied when we use "ustedes" only applies in European Spanish because the vosotros form is not used in Latin America. Latin American Spanish only uses the pronoun "ustedes" to refer to both an informal you plural or a formal you plural. 

Using the conditional tense

Another way of adding politeness is to use the conditional tense:

Bear in mind that it would not be appropriate to use this structure with the conditional in a friendly conversation with someone you know well, instead it would seem odd. This structure is used in very formal situations and/or with people you do not know.

See also: Using poder to say could [do something] for polite requests and suggestions in Spanish (El Condicional Simple)

Using certain formal phrases

If you want to make sure you sound very formal, you can begin a request with "Te/le importa..." or even the more formal "Te/le importaría..."

Other words that add politeness in Spanish are: perdón/ perdone /disculpa/disculpe.