What does that mean
A very common alternative, literally 'What does that want to say?'. Use it exactly like the main phrase.
A simple and essential phrase meaning 'I don't understand.' Use it when you need the other person to explain or repeat something.
A polite and direct way to ask 'Can you explain that, please?'. Use this formal version ('puede') with strangers, teachers, or in professional settings.
The teacher says a new word. The student asks: 'What does that mean?'
You see a sign that says 'Oferta'. You ask your friend: 'What does that mean?'
Someone gives you directions, but they are very fast. You say: 'Excuse me, I don't understand.'
At the restaurant, the menu says 'plato del día'. You ask the waiter: 'Can you explain what the dish of the day is, please?'
The phrase '¿Qué significa eso?' is standard and universally understood across the entire Spanish-speaking world.
The phrase is the same. The only difference is pronunciation, specifically the 'c' in 'significa', which is pronounced like 'th' in 'thin' in most of Spain.
No variation. '¿Qué significa eso?' is the standard and most common way to ask.
No variation. This phrase is used identically to other Latin American countries.
While '¿Qué significa eso?' is perfectly normal, in related questions you will hear the 'vos' form, such as '¿A qué te referís?' instead of the 'tú' form '¿A qué te refieres?'
Saying '¿Qué es eso significa?' — This is a direct translation of 'What is that means?'. In Spanish, you don't need the verb 'es' (is) here. The verb 'significa' (it means) works on its own. The correct way is simply '¿Qué significa eso?'
Using 'hacer' (to do/make) for questions, like '¿Qué hace eso significar?' — English uses 'do/does' to form questions, but Spanish does not. Spanish changes the verb ending and uses intonation. 'Hace' is not used as a helper verb for questions in this way.
Confusing 'eso' and 'esto'. — Use '¿Qué significa esto?' for something you are holding or pointing to right in front of you ('this'). Use '¿Qué significa eso?' for something someone just said, or something that is a little further away ('that'). 'Eso' is generally more common in conversation.
Found this useful? Save it for later.