What this tool does
Google Translate fails you at 3am with a sick child. Your downloaded phrasebook fails when you can't find it in your luggage. This tool generates a single-page set of phrases for the situation you're in — printable, scannable, with pronunciation hints that a non-Spanish speaker can attempt.
Tip: take a screenshot of the output on your phone. Even without internet, screenshots work.
How to pronounce Spanish
Three rules will get you 80% of Spanish pronunciation:
- Every vowel is short and pure: a = "ah", e = "eh", i = "ee", o = "oh", u = "oo".
- H is silent: "hola" = "ola", "hospital" = "ospital".
- R rolls: tap the tip of your tongue to the roof of your mouth. If you can't roll, an English R is still understandable.
Frequently asked questions
Is English widely spoken in Spain?
In Madrid, Barcelona and Mallorca — yes, often well. In rural Spain and southern Andalucía — less so. Younger Spaniards (under 40) usually have basic English. Older generations often speak only Spanish (or local language like Catalan, Basque, Galician).
Do I need to learn Spanish?
You can survive on English in major cities. You will be treated better — and get the local price vs the tourist price — if you make even minimal effort. Learn: por favor (please), gracias (thank you), buenos días (good morning), la cuenta por favor (the bill please).
What emergency number do I dial?
112 works across Spain for any emergency (police, ambulance, fire). Operators often speak English. 091 is police only, 061 is ambulance only.
Limitations
Pronunciation guides are phonetic English approximations. They will not match perfect native pronunciation but they will be understood. The pointable mode is meant to be shown to a Spanish speaker, not read aloud by you.