The Canary Islands are part of Spain so the language in Tenerife is Spanish - although English is widely spoken.
However, a few words and phrases go a long way when communicating with people - not only will the locals respect you for at least trying to speak - but it also opens up your social circle.
Here are a few useful words and phrases to help you on your holiday:-
Etiquette
| Please | Por favor |
|---|---|
| Thank you (very much) | (Muchas) gracias |
| Excuse me | ¡perdone! |
| I'm sorry, but | Lo siento, pero |
| That's a shame | Es una lastima |
| Can I? | ¿Puedo? |
General Responses
| Yes | Sí |
|---|---|
| No | No |
| That depends | Depende |
| I don't know | No lo se |
| I think so | Creo que sí |
| It doesn't matter | No importa |
| I don't mind | No me molesta |
| Of course! | ¡Claro! |
| True | Es verdad |
| With pleasure | Con gusto |
Question
| Where | ¿Dónde? |
|---|---|
| When? | ¿Cuándo? |
| Why? | ¿Por qué? |
| What? | ¿Qué? |
| Who? | ¿Quién? |
| How? | ¿Cómo? |
| How much/many? | ¿Cuánto?/¿Cuántos/as? |
| Is there/Are there? | ¿Hay? |
| What time is it | ¿Qué hora es? |
Greetings
| Hello! | ¡Hola! |
|---|---|
| Good day (hello) | Buenos días |
| Good evening | Buenas tardes |
| Good night | Buenas noches |
| Goodbye | Adios |
| See you soon | Hasta luego |
| Pleased to meet you | Encantado/a |
Spanish Language Courses
Spanish in Tenerife - Spanish Courses in Tenerife. Twenty different Spanish programs for all levels, ages and interests. General Intensive Courses, One on One, Spanish for Medical Professionals, Business Spanish, Junior Programs, Spanish + Flamenco, Scuba, Tennis, Golf and much more!
