Spanish Phrase
¿Qué pasa?
Meaning
This is one of the most common informal greetings in the Spanish language. It literally translates to 'What passes?' but functions exactly like the English 'What's up?' or 'What's going on?'. It is highly versatile and can be used as a simple hello or a genuine question about a situation.
When to use
Use this phrase in casual settings with friends, family, or peers. It is perfect for initiating a conversation or asking for an update when you walk into a room where something is happening.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Quépasa?
Qué
An interrogative pronoun meaning 'what', which always carries a tilde (accent mark) when used in a question.
Pasar
The verb 'pasa' comes from 'pasar' (to pass/happen). In this context, it is conjugated in the third-person singular present tense.
🗨In Conversation
¡Hola, Diego! ¿Qué pasa?
Hi, Diego! What's up?
Nada mucho, solo estudiando para el examen.
Not much, just studying for the exam.
✕Common Mistakes
¿Qué pasan?
The verb must remain in the third-person singular form 'pasa' regardless of how many people you are addressing.
¿Qué es pasa?
Avoid adding the verb 'ser' (to be) before 'pasa'; the phrase is complete without it.
↔Alternatives
¿Qué tal?
How's it going?
¿Qué hay?
What's up? (Literal: What is there?)
¿Qué onda?
What's the vibe? (Common in Mexico)
Cultural Tip
In Spain, you will often hear '¿Qué pasa?' followed by 'tío' or 'tía' (guy/girl) among friends. In Latin American countries, while understood, it might be replaced by regional slang like '¿Qué onda?' or '¿Qué más?'. It is generally too informal for business meetings or speaking with elders you don't know well.