Spanish word of the day: Dar la vez

What does “dar la vez” mean?

Dar la vez (idiomatic expression, Spain) – This practical phrase is used when you’re waiting your turn in a line, especially at local shops, bakeries, or markets. When someone asks “¿Quién da la vez?” they’re politely checking who is last in line, so they know whom to follow. If you’re the last, you “das la vez” (give the turn) to the newcomer, helping everyone keep track without a formal queue.

Example sentences with “dar la vez”

• Al llegar a la panadería, pregunté: “¿Quién da la vez?”
  🍞 When I got to the bakery, I asked, “Who’s last in line?”

• Te doy la vez, yo soy el último.
  🎟️ I’ll give you the turn, I’m the last one.

• En el mercado siempre hay que pedir la vez para no colarse.
  🛒 At the market, you always have to ask for your place so you don’t cut in.

This idiom uses the verb “dar” If you need a refresher on how to use it,
our conjugation tables can help.

Word in context

Dar la vez is a uniquely Spanish way to organize lines in busy places where people don’t always stand in a perfect queue. Instead, when you arrive, you simply ask who’s last, and that person “gives you the turn.” It’s a small act of courtesy that keeps things running smoothly and avoids confusion or arguments about who was first. You’ll hear this phrase at the butcher’s, the bakery, the pharmacy, or any place where people wait their turn for service.

If you want to sound natural and polite in Spain, use dar la vez whenever you walk into a shop and aren’t sure where the line starts. It’s a great way to blend in, show respect for others, and make sure you get served in the right order.