With over 580 million speakers worldwide, Spanish is the second most spoken language in business after English. Whether you’re closing deals in Madrid, negotiating with Latin American clients, or collaborating with Spanish-speaking colleagues, knowing key business phrases can make a significant difference in your professional success.
This guide covers the most common Spanish phrases professionals need, with direct translations from common English phrases in Spanish. You’ll also learn cultural insights to avoid misunderstandings and build stronger relationships.
Basic Spanish Words in English for Professional Settings
Making a strong first impression starts with proper greetings. In Spanish business culture, formality is often expected until a closer relationship develops.
Key Greetings & Polite Expressions
“Mucho gusto” – “Nice to meet you” (Literally: “Much pleasure”)
- Example: “Mucho gusto, soy Carlos de Marketing.” (“Nice to meet you, I’m Carlos from Marketing.”)
“¿Cómo está usted?” (Formal) vs. “¿Cómo estás?” (Informal) – “How are you?”
- Use usted in initial meetings (especially in Latin America).
“Buenos días / Buenas tardes / Buenas noches” – “Good morning / afternoon / evening”
- Unlike English, Spanish specifies time-of-day greetings more strictly.
“Gracias” & “Por favor” – “Thank you” & “Please”
- Adding these shows respect.
Cultural Tip
In Spain, a handshake is standard. In Latin America, expect a light hug or cheek kiss (only after rapport is built).
Key Spanish Phrases for Meetings & Discussions
Whether you’re leading a meeting or just participating, these phrases will help you communicate effectively.
Meeting Vocabulary
“¿A qué hora es la reunión?” – “What time is the meeting?”
“Necesitamos una solución” – “We need a solution.” (A common English phrase in Spanish with a direct translation.)
“Vamos a comenzar” – “Let’s get started.”
“¿Podría repetir, por favor?” – “Could you repeat that, please?”
Expressing Agreement/Disagreement
“Estoy de acuerdo” – “I agree.”
“No estoy seguro/a” – “I’m not sure.”
“Tengo una pregunta” – “I have a question.”
Cultural Note
Meetings in Spanish-speaking countries often start late (especially in Latin America). Don’t push if your counterpart is 15-30 minutes late—it’s normal.
Common English Phrases in Spanish for Written & Spoken Communication
Clear written and spoken communication is crucial in business. Here’s how to sound professional in emails and calls.
Email Phrases
“Estimado/a [Name]” – “Dear [Name]” (More formal than “Hola”)
“Adjunto el documento” – “I’ve attached the document.”
“Quedo a la espera de su respuesta” – “I look forward to your reply.”
Phone Call Vocabulary
“¿De parte de quién?” – “Who’s calling?”
“Un momento, por favor” – “One moment, please.”
“¿Podría hablar con [Name]?” – “Could I speak with [Name]?”
Pro Tip
In emails, Spanish tends to be more formal than in English. Avoid casual language unless the relationship is well-established.
Basic Spanish Sales & Negotiation Vocabulary
If you’re in sales, negotiation, or client relations, these phrases will help you navigate discussions smoothly.
Key Sales Phrases
“¿Cuál es su presupuesto?” – “What’s your budget?”
“Podemos ofrecerle un descuento” – “We can offer you a discount.”
“¿Cuándo necesita esto?” – “When do you need this?”
Negotiation Tactics
“¿Podemos discutir los términos?” – “Can we discuss the terms?”
“¿Hay flexibilidad en el precio?” – “Is there flexibility in the price?”
“Aceptamos propuestas” – “We accept proposals.”
Cultural Insight
In Latin America, bargaining (“regatear”) is common in business. A polite back-and-forth is expected—don’t accept the first offer too quickly.
Quick Reference Table for Daily Use
Keep these most common Spanish phrases handy for quick reference:
| English Phrase | Spanish Translation |
| Let’s follow up | Sigamos en contacto |
| ASAP | Cuanto antes |
| Looking forward to it | Con ganas |
| Let’s make it happen” | Hagámoslo realidad |
| Any updates? | ¿Hay novedades? |
Conclusion
Learning these key Spanish business phrases can give you a real edge in professional settings. Whether you’re meeting new contacts, writing emails, or sitting at the negotiation table, having the right words makes all the difference. Start using them today, and you might be surprised at the new doors that open.
