Remember that 'espera' as a noun is always feminine, so you'll use 'la' or 'una' with it. For example, 'la espera' (the wait) or 'una larga espera' (a long wait).

Always Feminine

It's very common to describe 'la espera' with adjectives like 'larga' (long) or 'corta' (short). For instance, 'Fue una corta espera'.

Describing the Wait

Very common, especially in contexts like travel, appointments, and customer service.

The verb 'esperar' means both 'to wait' and 'to hope'. You can usually tell the difference from the rest of the sentence. If you're waiting *for* something or someone, use 'esperar a'. If you're hoping *that* something happens, use 'esperar que'.

Wait vs. Hope

When you say you hope *that* something else happens, the next verb often needs a special ending (this is called the subjunctive). For example, 'Ella espera que tú **vengas**' (She hopes that you come).

Using 'esperar que'

Extremely common. This is a core verb form you'll hear and use daily.

Formal vs. Informal

This command form, 'espera', is used when talking to one person you know well, like a friend or family member (someone you call 'tú').

Informal 'You' (tú)

To sound more polite, you can add 'un momento' or 'por favor'. For example, 'Espera un momento, por favor' (Wait a moment, please).

Softening the Command

An extremely common and essential command used in everyday conversation.

Learn the meanings of 'espera' in Spanish. Understand it as 'the wait' (noun), 'he/she waits' (verb), and 'wait!' (command). Includes full conjugations, examples, and usage tips.

espera

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations