Spanish Phrase
¿Qué planes tienes?
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to ask someone about their upcoming intentions or schedule. It is informal and friendly, making it perfect for checking if a friend is free to hang out. The word 'planes' refers to general activities rather than a rigid itinerary.
When to use
Use this when you are talking to friends, family, or close colleagues to see what they are doing later today, tonight, or over the weekend. It is a common conversation starter when you want to suggest an activity together.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Quéplanestienes?
Qué
The interrogative pronoun meaning 'what', always written with an accent mark in questions.
Planes
The plural noun for 'plans'. Note that it is masculine, so you would say 'muchos planes'.
Tienes
The informal second-person singular of the verb 'tener' (to have). It is an irregular 'yo-go' verb with an e-ie stem change.
🗨In Conversation
¿Qué planes tienes para el sábado?
What plans do you have for Saturday?
Nada todavía, ¿por qué?
Nothing yet, why?
✕Common Mistakes
¿Qué planes tú tienes?
In Spanish, subject pronouns like 'tú' are usually omitted because the verb ending 'tienes' already indicates the subject.
¿Qué planes haces?
While 'hacer planes' means 'to make plans', when asking what someone's current status is, you must use 'tener' (to have).
↔Alternatives
¿Qué vas a hacer?
What are you going to do?
¿Tienes algo pensado?
Do you have something in mind?
¿Qué hay para hoy?
What's on for today?
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish-speaking regions, social life is spontaneous, so asking about plans is often the first step toward a group gathering. It is quite common to ask this without a specific invitation in mind, simply as a way to catch up on each other's lives. In countries like Spain or Mexico, plans are often made 'sobre la marcha' (as you go).