What is the Spanish Phrase “Lo Que“?75

The Spanish phrase "lo que" is a relative pronoun that means "what" or "that which." It is used to introduce a dependent clause that provides more information about a noun or pronoun in the main clause. For example:

La mujer que vi ayer era muy hermosa.

(The woman that I saw yesterday was very beautiful.)

In this sentence, the dependent clause "que vi ayer" provides more information about the noun "mujer." It tells us that the woman being referred to is the woman that the speaker saw yesterday.

"Lo que" can also be used to introduce a noun clause. A noun clause is a clause that functions as a noun. For example:

No sé lo que quieres decir.

(I don't know what you mean.)

In this sentence, the noun clause "lo que quieres decir" functions as the object of the verb "sé." It tells us what the speaker does not know.

Here are some other examples of how "lo que" can be used:
Lo que más me gusta de España es la comida.

(What I like most about Spain is the food.)
No entiendo lo que dices.

(I don't understand what you're saying.)
Lo que necesitamos es un plan.

(What we need is a plan.)
Hice lo que me pediste.

(I did what you asked me to do.)
Lo que me preocupa es el dinero.

(What worries me is the money.)

"Lo que" is a very versatile phrase that can be used in a variety of ways. By understanding how to use it correctly, you can improve your Spanish communication skills.

Additional Information

In addition to its uses as a relative pronoun and to introduce noun clauses, "lo que" can also be used in a number of other ways.
As an exclamation:

¡Lo que me he reído!

(How I laughed!)
As an intensifier:

Lo que más me gusta es viajar.

(What I like most is to travel.)
As a way to express surprise or disbelief:

¡Lo que dices!

(What are you saying!)

"Lo que" is a very common phrase in Spanish, and it is important to understand how to use it correctly. By following the tips in this article, you can improve your Spanish communication skills and avoid making mistakes.

2025-02-15

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