Telling someone I'm a beginner.

Question

Whats a good, clear way of explaining to someone that I've only just begun spanish.? "Hablo un poco español", I speak a little spanish, doesn't really say much. "Soy aprender español", I'm learning is probably better. Maybe adding a time, "tres meses" would help. Thoughts, opinions and personal experiences will be gratefully received as always.

Answer 1

Hablo un poco de español, pero soy principiante.

I speak some spanish, but I am a beginner.

I think "pero" , but, works well with beginner. It warns them no to expect too much. Thanks. - fontanero, May 15, 2010

Answer 2

Good morning, Fontanero.

"Soy aprender español"

You can't use "soy" here because it's an "estar" situation. You can say "Estoy aprendiendo español" or even better is "Estudio español."

I find that "Hablo un poco de español" works for me. The conversation thereafter tells them just how much Spanish I really know. If your a beginner, they'll hear that and hopefully adjust the speed of their speech to help you out.

"Más despacio, por favor" is also a phrase to memorize. It fits both formal and informal situations so you don't have the awkward tú vs. usted situation.

Finally, remember to relax. All spanish-speaking folks I have met are happy to find that I'm learning their language and are more than willing to be patient.

Good afternoon Marianne, I think "learn" is important, it tells them I'm limited, but I'm trying. - fontanero, May 15, 2010

Answer 3

Hablo muy poco español, soy principiante todavía.

I can speak a very little Spanish. I´m just a beginner.

The English part should read "...speak very little" (without the "a") - danrivera, May 15, 2010

I hadn't thought of making it "muy poco", thanks. - fontanero, May 15, 2010