Spanish · B2 · Everyday language
It depends on the details in Spanish
In Spanish, expressing that a decision depends on specific variables often involves the phrase 'dependiendo de' followed by an indirect question or a conditional clause. At a B2 level, it is important to note that when these clauses refer to uncertain future events, the subjunctive mood is frequently used.
What you'll learn
- Master the use of 'dependiendo de' followed by interrogative pronouns (quién, qué, cuándo, etc.).
- Apply the subjunctive mood correctly in dependent clauses indicating uncertainty.
- Express flexibility in plans and decisions based on external conditions.
Spanish phrases for it depends on the details
Dependiendo de si está abierto, probaremos con la entrada más pequeña.
Depending on whether it's open, we'll try the smaller entrance.
'Dependiendo de si' is the direct equivalent of 'depending on whether'.
Podemos cambiar el diseño dependiendo de qué materiales estén disponibles.
We can change the design depending on which materials are available.
The subjunctive 'estén' is used here because the availability is a condition for the change.
Dependiendo de cuánta gente responda, necesitaremos otra mesa.
Depending on how many people reply, we'll need another table.
'Responda' is in the subjunctive to reflect the uncertainty of the outcome.
Llevaré una prenda adicional dependiendo de lo que diga el pronóstico.
I'll pack an extra layer depending on what the forecast says.
'Lo que diga' uses the subjunctive because the forecast hasn't been checked yet.
Dependiendo de cuándo termines, puede que aún alcancemos el tren anterior.
Depending on when you finish, we might still catch the earlier train.
'Cuando' followed by a future action triggers the subjunctive 'termines'.
Podemos dividir las tareas dependiendo de quién quiera participar.
We can divide the jobs depending on who wants to join in.
Using 'quien quiera' implies a hypothetical person who might want to join.
Dependiendo de lo detallada que sea tu respuesta, puede que un párrafo sea suficiente.
Depending on how detailed your answer is, one paragraph may be enough.
The construction 'lo + adjective + que' translates to 'how + adjective'.
Elegiré un ejemplo diferente dependiendo de qué parte te resulte confusa.
I'll choose a different example depending on which part you find confusing.
'Resulte' (from resultar) is a more sophisticated way to say 'find' or 'turn out to be'.
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Try it free for 7 daysKey words
Depender de
To depend on
Unlike English 'on', Spanish always uses the preposition 'de' with this verb.
Pronóstico
Forecast / Prediction
Commonly used for weather (pronóstico del tiempo).
Resultar
To turn out / To find
Used to express an impression, like 'me resulta difícil' (I find it difficult).
Prenda
Garment / Piece of clothing
More specific than 'ropa' when referring to a single item.
Dependiendo de + Interrogatives
To specify a detail that determines a choice, use 'dependiendo de' followed by a word with a written accent (interrogative). When the outcome is uncertain or in the future, the verb following the interrogative usually takes the subjunctive.
| Use | Form | Example |
|---|---|---|
| With 'Qué' (What) | dependiendo de qué + [subjunctive] | Dependiendo de qué decidas. |
| With 'Cómo' (How) | dependiendo de cómo + [subjunctive] | Dependiendo de cómo reaccione el niño. |
| With 'Si' (Whether) | dependiendo de si + [indicative] | Dependiendo de si llueve hoy. |
More examples
Iremos al parque o al museo, dependiendo de cómo amanezca el día.
We will go to the park or the museum, depending on how the day starts.
'Amanezca' refers to the weather conditions at dawn.
La cena será a las siete o a las ocho, dependiendo de a qué hora llegues.
Dinner will be at seven or eight, depending on what time you arrive.
Note the preposition 'a' before 'qué hora' because arriving 'at' a time is intended.