Speak slower
The most polite way, framed as a question: 'Can you speak slower, please?'
The informal version, used with friends, family, or people you address with 'tú'.
A simple, direct alternative meaning 'Slower, please'. Very useful and universally understood.
Sorry, speak slower, please. I don't understand well.
Can you speak slower? I'm learning Spanish.
Slower, please! You speak very fast.
To the group: "Please, can you all speak slower?"
In Spain, for informal groups, you'll hear 'Hablad más despacio' (using 'vosotros'). The singular informal 'habla' and formal 'hable' are the same as in Latin America.
In Rioplatense Spanish, the informal command uses 'vos', so you'll say 'Hablá más despacio'. Notice the stress on the final 'a'.
While 'Habla más despacio' (tú) is common, in some regions like Bogotá, 'usted' is used informally. So, 'Hable más despacio' can be used even with friends, making it a very versatile phrase here.
Using the wrong formality. Saying 'Habla más despacio' to an older person can sound disrespectful. When in doubt, use the formal 'Hable más despacio' or the question '¿Puede hablar más despacio?'.
Confusing 'despacio' and 'lento'. 'Despacio' is an adverb that modifies a verb (speak slowly). 'Lento' is an adjective that describes a noun (a slow car). While 'hable más lento' is understood, 'hable más despacio' is the most natural and correct way to say it.
Forgetting to add 'por favor'. Because you are giving a command, simply saying 'Hable más despacio' can sound abrupt. Always add 'por favor' (please) to be polite.
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