What might sound respectful in English can actually come across as confusing, overly complicated, or even sarcastic when translated into Spanish. Don’t fall into the politeness trap
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The overly polite Brits may actually be annoying Spaniards with excessive manners.
While Brits may now be in a battle with the Japanese for the title of world’s most polite people, the origin of modern manners – or etiquette – as we know them has roots in France.
“The word etiquette to which we so often refer actually originates from the French estiquette –’to attach or stick’. Indeed, the modern understanding of the word can be linked to the Court of the French King Louis XIV, who used small placards called etiquettes, as a reminder to courtiers of accepted ‘house rules’ such as not walking through certain areas of the palace gardens,” writes Historic UK. This intervention comes after British passport holders were urged to do one important thing before October 12.
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Over the years, British society has followed in Louis’ wake and taken on politeness as something of a national pastime. However, according to one expert, such well-intentioned politeness often backfires spectacularly when visiting Spain. What might sound respectful in English can actually come across as confusing, overly complicated, or even sarcastic when translated into Spanish.
The problem creates uncomfortable situations that could have easily been avoided. According to James Smith from Learn Spanish with James, who has spent over a decade teaching Spanish and living across Spain, Argentina, and Costa Rica, the issue stems from a fundamental cultural misunderstanding.
“British tourists think they’re being respectful by using elaborate politeness, but Spanish culture values directness. What we consider courteous can actually make Spanish speakers uncomfortable because it sounds unnatural and forced,” he explained.
James reveals why British-style politeness creates problems abroad and shares the simple phrases that actually work.
Spanish culture operates on a completely different politeness system from Britain. While Brits soften requests with phrases like “I’m terribly sorry to bother you” or “Would it be at all possible”, Spanish speakers prefer clear, direct communication.
“In Spain, being direct is respectful, not rude. When you ask for something clearly and simply, you’re showing consideration for the other person’s time. But when British tourists translate their elaborate politeness word-for-word, it creates confusion,” James said.
The disconnect goes deeper than language. Spanish politeness exists, but it’s expressed through tone, body language, and simple courtesies like “por favour” and “gracias” rather than lengthy verbal gymnastics.
“I’ve watched British tourists tie themselves in knots trying to be polite, and the Spanish person just looks bewildered. They’re wondering why this person is apologising so much for a simple request,” James continued.
Common British phrases become linguistic disasters when directly translated. “Sorry to bother you, but would you mind if I asked where the toilet is?” becomes an awkward mouthful that sounds theatrical to Spanish ears.
James continued: “The phrase ‘would you mind’ doesn’t really exist in Spanish the way we use it. You end up with these clunky translations that make you sound like you’re performing Shakespeare in a café.”
Another frequent mistake involves over-apologising. British tourists often begin every interaction with “I’m terribly sorry” or some variation of it, which translates to unnecessarily dramatic apologies that confuse Spanish speakers.
James added: “Spanish people start wondering what you’ve done wrong when you apologise before asking a simple question. They’re thinking ‘Why is this person so sorry about wanting directions?’”
James offers some tips on how to interact properly in certain social situations when you’re in Spain:
Ordering food and drinks
British way: “Would it be possible to have a coffee, if that’s not too much trouble?”
Spanish way: “Un café, por favour” (A coffee, please)
Asking for directions
British way: “Sorry to bother you, but would you mind telling me where the station is?”
Spanish way: “¿Dónde está la estación?” (Where is the station?)
Getting someone’s attention
British way: “Excuse me, I’m terribly sorry to interrupt…”
Spanish way: “Disculpe” (Excuse me)
Making requests in shops
British way: “Would you mind if I had a look at that, please?”
Spanish way: “Ese, por favour” (That one, please) – while pointing to the item