Spanish Phrase
Este cartel quiere decir 'salida'.
Meaning
The sentence tells the listener that the sign they are looking at indicates the word 'salida', which means 'exit'. It is a straightforward way to explain the purpose of a sign in public spaces such as malls, airports, or streets.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to point out the meaning of a sign, especially in places where directions are important—e.g., during a tour, when giving safety instructions, or simply answering someone's question about a sign.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Estecartelquieredecir'salida'
Este (demonstrative adjective)
Used to point out a specific noun that is close to the speaker; agrees in gender and number with the noun.
cartel (noun)
Means 'sign' or 'poster'; masculine singular, so it takes the article 'el' or demonstrative 'este'.
quiere decir (verb phrase)
Literally 'wants to say', the common way to express 'means' in Spanish.
quiere (present of querer)
Third‑person singular present; here it functions as an auxiliary for the infinitive 'decir'.
decir (infinitive)
The infinitive that follows 'quiere' to complete the meaning 'to say/mean'.
Quotes around salida
The word being defined is placed in single quotes to show it is the exact text on the sign.
🗨In Conversation
¿Qué significa este cartel?
What does this sign mean?
Este cartel quiere decir 'salida'.
This sign means 'exit'.
✕Common Mistakes
Este cartel es 'salida'.
Using 'es' (Este cartel es 'salida') sounds like you are calling the sign itself 'exit' rather than saying what it means.
Este cartel indica 'salida'.
In some regions 'letrero' is more common for a street sign; using 'cartel' for a small poster can feel odd.
Este cartel quiere 'salida'.
Learners sometimes drop the infinitive and say 'quiere' alone, which is incomplete.
↔Alternatives
Este letrero indica 'salida'.
This sign indicates 'exit'.
Este aviso señala la salida.
This notice points to the exit.
Este signo muestra 'salida'.
This sign shows 'exit'.
Cultural Tip
In most Spanish‑speaking countries the word on an exit sign is simply 'Salida', but in emergency contexts you’ll often see 'Salida de emergencia' or a green arrow. The phrase 'quiere decir' is neutral and works in both formal and informal settings, making it safe for travel, work, or classroom use.