To Set The Table In Spanish: My Personal Experience
Setting the table is an important part of any meal, and it becomes even more crucial when you are in a Spanish-speaking country. I had the opportunity to study abroad in Spain, and one of the first things I had to learn was how to set the table in Spanish. It seemed like a small thing, but it made a big difference in my daily life. In this article, I will share my experience and give you some tips on how to set the table in Spanish.
What Does “To Set The Table” Mean In Spanish?
“To set the table” in Spanish is “poner la mesa”. This phrase is used to describe the act of preparing the table for a meal. It includes arranging the plates, glasses, silverware, and any other items that will be used during the meal.
Step-By-Step Guide For Setting The Table In Spanish
1. Start with a clean tablecloth or placemats.
2. Place the dinner plates in the middle of the table, with any salad or bread plates to the left of the dinner plate.
3. Put the forks on the left side of the plate, with the salad fork on the outside and the dinner fork closest to the plate.
4. Place the knife on the right side of the plate, with the blade facing the plate.
5. Put the spoons on the right side of the knife, with the soup spoon on the outside and the dessert spoon closest to the plate.
6. Place the glasses above the knife, with the water glass on the left and the wine glass on the right.
7. Add any additional items, such as a bread basket or salt and pepper shakers.
Top 10 Tips And Ideas For Setting The Table In Spanish
1. Always start with a clean tablecloth or placemats.
2. Use appropriate silverware for each course of the meal.
3. Make sure to have enough glasses for each guest, including water and wine glasses.
4. Use napkins to the left of the forks or on the plate.
5. Add a centerpiece to the table, such as a vase of flowers or a candle.
6. Use place cards to assign seats for formal dinners.
7. Consider the color scheme and style of your dishes and tableware.
8. Use chargers or placemats to add a pop of color to the table.
9. Make sure the table is not overcrowded, leaving enough space for plates and glasses.
10. Don’t forget to enjoy the meal and the company of your guests!
Pros And Cons Of Setting The Table In Spanish
Pros: Setting the table in Spanish shows respect for the Spanish culture and can make you feel more comfortable in Spanish-speaking environments. It also adds an extra touch of elegance to any meal.
Cons: It can be challenging to remember all the different silverware and glasses needed for each course of the meal. It can also be time-consuming to set the table properly, especially for larger groups.
My Personal Review And Suggestion
Setting the table in Spanish may seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel in Spanish-speaking environments. It shows respect for the culture and can even be a conversation starter with your Spanish-speaking friends and colleagues. My suggestion would be to practice setting the table in Spanish at home, so you feel confident when you have the opportunity to do it in a Spanish-speaking country.
Question & Answer And FAQs
Q: Do I need to use a specific type of silverware for setting the table in Spanish?
A: No, you can use any type of silverware that you have available. However, it is common to use more formal or elegant silverware for special occasions.
Q: Are there any specific rules for setting the table in Spanish?
A: There are no specific rules, but it is important to follow basic etiquette guidelines. For example, the knife should always be placed with the blade facing the plate, and the glasses should be placed above the knife.
Q: How do I know which glass to use for each type of drink?
A: Water glasses are typically larger and placed on the left side of the knife, while wine glasses are smaller and placed on the right side of the knife. Red wine glasses are typically larger than white wine glasses.