Digas / Diras

Question

Hi, is there any (even slight) difference between:

(por favor), A) No se lo DIGAS a nadie B) No se lo DIRAS a nadie

Is is exactly the same phrase? Which one is most commonly used? Am I right that people in spain does not use the imperative often, so they say: (si hay algun problema) "me mandas un mensaje " rather then "mandame un mensaje"?

Thanks for explanation

Martin

Answer 1

Am I right that people in Spain do not use the imperative often, so they say: (si hay algun problema) "me mandas un mensaje " rather then "mandame un mensaje"?

The first option is not really an imperative, technically speaking. We do use this often, yes.

Oye, me mandas un mensaje y en paz. Oye, mándame un mensaje ...

really, this would mean the same in the context.

NO se lo dirás a nadie.

You won't tell anybody. Even this can be an indirect form of a command, or even a threat. You can sometimes hear this on what we call: programas de corazón

Answer 2

Thanks Heidita,

so it is like the first option is more like "(please) don't tell anyone", and the second one is "you will not tell anyone, (you understand?)!" and is more like a command or threat, even if it is not technically an imperative.

Thanks, it makes sence

Martin

(sense) well put :) - Kiwi-Girl, Nov 1, 2011

yes, that is true, good job:) - 00494d19, Nov 1, 2011

Answer 3

Hi Kiwi_Girl, thank for reply.

The first option is gramatically right, that is for sure. The thing is, I heard people using the second option (in some TV show), so I'm curious what is the difference, if any

Answer 4

Welcome to the forum Martin - to say 'dont' tell anyone' I would go with your first option because negative commands are given in the same form as the present subjunctive of a verb - you can find this form at the link below for the verb decir

Decir - Negative Commands: Don't say! - no digas, no diga, no digamos, no digáis no digan