Spanish Phrase
Perdón, no te entendí.
Meaning
This phrase is a polite way to express that you didn't comprehend what someone said. It's used when you need clarification or for the speaker to repeat themselves. It implies a momentary lack of understanding rather than a complete inability to grasp the language.
When to use
Use this phrase when you didn't hear something clearly, when someone spoke too fast, or when you didn't grasp the meaning of a word or sentence. It's appropriate in most social situations, from casual conversations to more formal settings, as "perdón" adds a polite touch.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Perdón,noteentendí.
Perdón
This means "pardon" or "excuse me." It's a versatile word used for minor apologies, getting attention, or asking someone to repeat something.
no
This is the standard negation particle in Spanish, placed directly before the verb to make a sentence negative.
te
This is the direct object pronoun for "you" (informal singular). In Spanish, object pronouns typically come before the conjugated verb.
entendí
This is the preterite (past simple) form of the verb "entender" (to understand), conjugated for "yo" (I). It indicates a completed action in the past.
🗨In Conversation
Necesitamos reunirnos a las siete para discutir el proyecto.
We need to meet at seven to discuss the project.
Perdón, no te entendí. ¿A qué hora dijiste?
Sorry, I didn't understand you. What time did you say?
✕Common Mistakes
Lo siento, no comprendí.
"Perdón" is more appropriate for minor apologies like not understanding. "Entender" is generally preferred over "comprender" for basic comprehension in this context.
Perdón, no entendí tú.
The direct object pronoun "te" is required before the verb to indicate "you" as the object of understanding.
↔Alternatives
¿Puedes repetir, por favor?
Can you repeat, please?
No entendí.
I didn't understand.
¿Cómo?
What? / Pardon?
¿Me lo puedes explicar de nuevo?
Can you explain it to me again?
Cultural Tip
In Spanish-speaking cultures, it's common and perfectly acceptable to ask for clarification. Using "Perdón" makes the request polite and softens the directness. Unlike some cultures where asking for repetition might be seen as rude, in Spanish, it's generally understood that communication is a two-way street, and clarification is part of ensuring mutual understanding.