Spanish Phrase
Sal primero.
Meaning
A direct command telling someone to be the first person to leave or go out. It can be used in casual situations when you want a friend or colleague to exit before the rest of the group.
When to use
Use it when you’re at a gathering, a meeting, or any place where you need someone to leave ahead of others – for example, when you’re the host and want the guest of honor to exit first, or when you’re coordinating a quick exit.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Salprimero
Imperative of salir
‘Sal’ is the informal second‑person singular imperative of the verb ‘salir’ (to leave/go out).
Adverb ‘primero’
‘Primero’ functions as an adverb meaning ‘first’; it follows the verb in most Spanish commands.
🗨In Conversation
Sal primero, que el resto llega tarde.
Leave first, the rest are coming late.
¡Vale! Ya voy.
Okay! I’m on my way.
✕Common Mistakes
Sale primero.
‘Sale’ is the third‑person singular present form, not the command you need.
Sal primera.
‘Primera’ is feminine; the adverb ‘primero’ is invariable.
Salir primero.
Using the infinitive ‘salir’ makes it a statement, not a command.
↔Alternatives
Sal antes.
Leave earlier.
Sé el primero en salir.
Be the first to leave.
Sal primero de la fila.
Leave first in line.
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish‑speaking countries the plain imperative can sound abrupt. Adding ‘por favor’ (e.g., ‘Sal primero, por favor’) or using a softer construction like ‘¿Podrías salir primero?’ makes it more polite. Also, remember that ‘sal’ (without accent) is also the noun for ‘salt’, so context is key to avoid confusion.