Spanish, much like other rich languages, doesn’t just have one way to say something.
And when it comes to a common question like “What are you doing?”, Spanish offers several variants.
Whether you’re traveling to a Spanish-speaking country, chatting with native speakers, or just seeking linguistic enlightenment, it’s fascinating to explore these alternatives.
What Are You Doing in Spanish Examples
1. ¿Qué Haces?
Directly translating to “What do you do?”, this is the most basic and universal way to ask someone what they’re up to.
If you remember one phrase from this list, make it this one.
2. ¿Qué Está Haciendo?
When addressing someone with whom you’d use the formal “usted” instead of “tú”, this is the appropriate version of the question.
It might be used in professional settings or when speaking with elders.
3. ¿En Qué Estás?
This phrase, translating roughly to “In what are you?”, is colloquial and used mainly in some parts of Latin America.
It’s a more relaxed, informal way to ask “What are you up to?”
4. ¿Qué Tal?
Though it directly translates to “What’s up?”, it can also imply “What are you doing?” based on context.
It’s a casual greeting you’d use with friends and peers.
5. ¿Qué Estás Haciendo Ahora?
If you wish to emphasize the “now” in your question, you’d use this variant.
It directly translates to “What are you doing now?”
6. ¿Qué Onda?
Popular in Mexico and some parts of Central America, ¿Qué Onda? is the equivalent of saying “What’s up?” or “How’s it going?”. While not a direct translation of “What are you doing?”, it’s often used in the same context.
7. ¿Todo Bien? ¿Qué Haces?
If you’re asking out of concern or checking in on someone, you might first ask if everything’s okay (Todo Bien?) before the “What are you doing?” part.
8. ¿Qué Hacen?
When addressing a group or more than one person, the correct phrasing becomes ¿Qué Hacen?, which translates to “What are you (all) doing?”
9. ¿Qué Rollo?
Another colloquial way of asking “What’s up?”, predominantly used in Mexico.
Depending on context, it can imply wanting to know what someone is doing.
10. ¿Q haces?
Just like in English, Spanish speakers also shorten phrases in text messages or chats. “¿Q haces?” is a brief version of “¿Qué haces?”, and it’s prevalent among the younger generation.
Conclusion
Diverse expressions in Spanish provide a more profound insight into its culture and nuances.
Next time you’re curious about someone’s activities in a Spanish conversation, remember you have a whole palette of phrases to choose from.
¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)