Spanish Phrase
¿Qué día es hoy?
Meaning
This is the standard way to ask for the current day of the week or the date in Spanish. It is a direct question that uses the verb 'ser' because it identifies a point in time. While simple, it is a foundational phrase for daily interactions.
When to use
Use this phrase in casual or formal settings when you are unsure of the date or the day of the week. It is perfect for starting a conversation about schedules, appointments, or general plans.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Quédíaeshoy?
Qué
An interrogative pronoun used here to ask 'what'. It always carries an accent mark in questions.
Es
The third-person singular form of the verb 'ser', used for identifying dates and time.
Hoy
An adverb meaning 'today'. Note that the 'h' is silent in Spanish.
🗨In Conversation
Disculpa, ¿qué día es hoy?
Excuse me, what day is today?
Hoy es miércoles.
Today is Wednesday.
✕Common Mistakes
¿Cuál día es hoy?
Use 'qué' instead of 'cuál' when asking for an identification of a noun directly following the interrogative.
¿Qué día está hoy?
Use 'ser' (es) for time and dates, not 'estar'.
↔Alternatives
¿A qué estamos hoy?
What is the date today?
¿Cuál es la fecha de hoy?
What is today's date?
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish-speaking countries, the calendar week begins on Monday. When answering, people often omit the word 'hoy' and simply say 'Es lunes' or 'Estamos a martes' depending on the region.