"Can you tell me where...?"
Hola a todos,
I'm currently studying abroad in Chile, and have been struggling with trying to say "can you tell me where/how/when..." in Spanish. Also, especially in emails, I often want to say "let me know", as in "Could you let me know when/where..." Typically its when I'm trying to find a place, a class, or also when trying to find out other information. Many times its with strangers or adults (meaning formal) but other times with people my age.
While it may be correct, "decirme" sounds suuuper awkward and incorrect. as does the phrase "podrías decirme donde/que/cuando" in general.
"Avísame" sounds much better to me, but I usually don't want to say "inform me"
"Dígame" seems to informal/demanding when, for example, asking directions from a stranger.
If anyone could help me out, I'd greatly appreciate it! Muchas gracias!
1 Answer
You said "decirme" sounds awkward, and indeed it would be if you started your request using the infinitive that way. You need a conjugated verb in front of it. There's nothing wrong with starting your question to someone with "¿Podrías decirme ..." as in ¿Podrías decirme donde queda el subte?....? (Could you tell me where the subway is?) ¿Podrías decirme como llegar al subte? (Could you tell me how to get to the subway?) To a bus driver: ¿Podría avisarme donde debo bajar? (Could you tell me/let me know, advise me where I need to get off?) Also to bus driver: ¿Podrías avisarme cuando lluegemos a la Calle Callao? (Could you tell me/let me know/advise me when we get to Callao Street?) To a stranger: ¿Disculpe, le puedo hacer una pregunta? Or ¿Puedo hacerle una pregunta? ¿Dónde queda el subte? (Excuse me, May I ask you a question? Where is the subway?) I know that avisarme literally translated sounds awkward in English, but it's ok for contexts such as my examples. (Keep in mind that I am not a native Spanish speaker. But I do get along pretty well in Spanish, mistakes and all.)
