Spanish Phrase
¿Qué tal a las siete?
Meaning
This phrase is a common way to suggest a specific time for a meeting or event. It uses the versatile expression '¿Qué tal...?' to propose an idea and 'a las siete' to specify the hour. It is informal and friendly, making it perfect for social arrangements.
When to use
Use this when you are coordinating plans with friends, family, or colleagues in a casual setting. It works well after you have already agreed to meet but need to settle on a specific time.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Qué talalassiete?
¿Qué tal?
A versatile expression used here to mean 'How about...?' or 'What do you think of...?' when proposing an idea.
A las
The preposition 'a' combined with the feminine plural article 'las' is the standard way to indicate 'at' a specific hour.
Siete
The number seven; hours in Spanish are feminine because they refer to 'las horas', hence the use of 'las'.
🗨In Conversation
¿Quieres ir a cenar hoy?
Do you want to go to dinner today?
¡Claro! ¿Qué tal a las siete?
Sure! How about at seven?
✕Common Mistakes
¿Qué tal en las siete?
Use the preposition 'a' for specific times instead of 'en'.
¿Qué tal a siete?
Always include the definite article 'las' before the hour in Spanish.
↔Alternatives
¿Te parece bien a las siete?
Does seven work for you?
¿Quedamos a las siete?
Shall we meet at seven?
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish-speaking countries, social gatherings often start later than the scheduled time, sometimes referred to as 'la hora latina'. However, when suggesting a time using '¿Qué tal...?', it is still polite to arrive within a reasonable window. Note that 'las siete' usually implies the evening (7:00 PM) unless the context clearly suggests breakfast.