In Spanish, short phrases are used to show courtesy when speaking and when asking for something. These expressions open and close interactions with a respectful tone. Using them changes the intention of a sentence without changing the content. They are also combined with gestures such as a smile or a greeting. Choosing the appropriate short form makes the communication sound natural.

Formal greetings are used with people you don’t know well, with adults in professional or authoritative contexts, and in situations where respect is shown. They are normally accompanied by you (formal) instead of you (informal). They are also common in formal emails or calls. The tone is careful and may include the last name or a title.

Informal greetings are used with friends, family, and trusted people. They sound close and usually use you (tú) in conversation. They are often combined with gestures or a relaxed tone. They can be shortened in everyday speech. They are also used to start short conversations without much ceremony.

Farewells close an interaction and can be formal or informal depending on the context. Choosing the appropriate form maintains courtesy until the end of the conversation. Sometimes they are combined with brief wishes. In many cases they are repeated when leaving a place with several people. They can also be used by phone or text.

To introduce yourself, simple phrases are used that indicate your name and, if desired, a brief detail. It is common to accompany the introduction with a greeting. In formal contexts you can add 'pleased to meet you' or 'nice to meet you'. The typical reply includes repeating the greeting or the pleasure. Keeping the structure simple makes the initial conversation easier.

When asking for something in Spanish, a brief form with please and a kind tone is usually used. Adding 'can you…?' or 'may I…?' softens the request. In formal contexts, 'could you…?' with you (formal) is preferred. It is also common to clearly indicate what is needed to avoid ambiguity. Ending the request with 'thanks in advance' signals gratitude.

Expressing thanks maintains respectful treatment and improves coexistence in conversations, whether short or long. In Spanish you can thank during the interaction, not just at the end. Varying the phrase helps you sound natural without losing courtesy. In formal contexts you can extend the phrase with a reason. The expected response is usually 'you’re welcome'.

To apologize, you choose words according to the severity and context. 'Sorry' is used for small interruptions or minor annoyances. 'Sorry' is used in informal contexts when acknowledging a mistake. 'Excuse me' is used to apologize in formal contexts, especially with you. In more serious situations you can add 'I'm sorry.' The apology is usually accompanied by a brief explanation or solution.

In basic conversations, short responses are used to show attention without interrupting the flow. These phrases confirm, deny, or show interest in a respectful way. They can be combined with a gesture or with thanks for greater courtesy. Choosing yes or no with an appropriate tone avoids sounding abrupt. It is also common to add please or sorry if clarification is needed.

In Spanish, the difference between you (formal) and you (informal) marks formality in conversation. You (formal) is used with older people, strangers, or in professional situations. You (informal) is used with friends, family, and peers. The choice changes the conjugation of verbs and some common phrases. Maintaining consistency in how you address others avoids confusion and shows respect.