How do you say 'this is' in Spanish?

Spanish has three forms: 'esto es' for general or abstract references, 'este es' before masculine nouns, and 'esta es' before feminine nouns. The choice depends on the grammatical gender of whatever follows.

When should I use 'esto' versus 'este'?

'Esto' is the neuter demonstrative pronoun, used when you are not pointing to a specific gendered noun—for example, 'esto es interesante' (this is interesting). 'Este' is masculine and 'esta' is feminine, and they are used when the noun's gender is known.

Can 'this is' be omitted in Spanish?

In casual speech, Spanish speakers sometimes drop the demonstrative and go straight to the verb, as in 'es mi casa' instead of 'esta es mi casa.' However, including the demonstrative adds clarity and emphasis, especially in introductions.

Spanish vocabulary · Beginner

This Is in Spanish: Esto es

Written by Sofia Ramirez, Lead Spanish Curriculum Editor · Reviewed May 2026

Esto es · phrase · EHS-toh ehs

The English phrase 'this is' translates to 'esto es' in Spanish when referring to something general or unspecified. When introducing a specific masculine noun, use 'este es,' and for a feminine noun, use 'esta es.' Understanding which form to use is a key building block of Spanish grammar.

EHS-toh ehs

Esto es exactamente lo que necesitaba.

This is exactly what I needed.

This Is in Spanish: Quick Reference

Below are the most common Spanish words for this is, with pronunciation and regional usage notes.

Spanish	English	Pronunciation	Region / Register
esto es	this is	EHS-toh ehs	Default, widely understood
este es	this is		when followed by a masculine noun
esta es	this is		when followed by a feminine noun

How Native Speakers Use Esto es

Real example sentences across three contexts you'll actually run into.

Introduction

Este es mi hermano mayor, Carlos.

This is my older brother, Carlos.

Introducing a male family member using the masculine form.

Pointing something out

Esta es la casa donde crecí.

This is the house where I grew up.

Identifying a feminine noun with the feminine demonstrative.

Abstract statement

Esto es muy importante para el proyecto.

This is very important for the project.

Using the neuter form to refer to an idea or situation.

Avoid These Mistakes When Using Esto es

Gender mismatch

Incorrect: Este es mi hermana.

Correct: Esta es mi hermana.

'Hermana' is feminine, so the demonstrative must also be feminine: 'esta,' not 'este.' Spanish demonstratives agree in gender with the noun they modify.

Neuter vs. gendered form

Incorrect: Esto es mi amigo Pedro.

Correct: Este es mi amigo Pedro.

'Esto' is the neuter form used for abstract concepts or unidentified things. When introducing a specific person or named object, use the gendered form 'este' or 'esta.'

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Common Questions About This Is in Spanish

How do you say 'this is' in Spanish?: Spanish has three forms: 'esto es' for general or abstract references, 'este es' before masculine nouns, and 'esta es' before feminine nouns. The choice depends on the grammatical gender of whatever follows.
When should I use 'esto' versus 'este'?: 'Esto' is the neuter demonstrative pronoun, used when you are not pointing to a specific gendered noun—for example, 'esto es interesante' (this is interesting). 'Este' is masculine and 'esta' is feminine, and they are used when the noun's gender is known.
Can 'this is' be omitted in Spanish?: In casual speech, Spanish speakers sometimes drop the demonstrative and go straight to the verb, as in 'es mi casa' instead of 'esta es mi casa.' However, including the demonstrative adds clarity and emphasis, especially in introductions.