aguarda
/ah-GWAHR-dah/
waits
The image shows a child who waits (aguarda) patiently.
aguarda(Verb (Conjugated Form))
waits
?he/she/it waits
,expects
?he/she/it expects
is awaiting
?formal action
📝 In Action
El director aguarda los resultados de la reunión.
B1The director awaits the results of the meeting.
Mi abuela siempre aguarda la primavera para plantar flores.
A2My grandmother always waits for spring to plant flowers.
¿Usted aguarda el autobús o el tren?
A2Are you (formal) waiting for the bus or the train?
💡 Grammar Points
The 'He/She/You Formal' Form
In Spanish, the form 'aguarda' is used when the person doing the action is 'él' (he), 'ella' (she), or 'usted' (the formal way to say 'you').
⭐ Usage Tips
Slightly More Formal than Esperar
While esperar is the most common verb for 'to wait,' aguardar often carries a slightly more formal or literary tone, especially when meaning 'to await' or 'to expect.'
The raised hand gives the command to wait! (aguarda).
📝 In Action
Aguarda un segundo, necesito encontrar mis llaves.
A1Wait a second, I need to find my keys.
Aguarda mi señal antes de empezar.
A2Wait for my signal before starting.
💡 Grammar Points
Informal Commands
When giving a direct command to someone you address informally (tú), the verb often takes the same form as the 'él/ella' present tense. Here, 'aguarda' means 'you, wait!'
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using the 'You' Form for Commands
Mistake: "Using 'tú aguardas' when giving a command."
Correction: The command form is simply 'aguarda' (Wait!). You drop the 's' and the pronoun 'tú'.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: aguarda
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'aguarda' as an informal command?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'aguardar' and 'esperar'?
'Esperar' is the most common and versatile verb for 'to wait' or 'to hope.' 'Aguardar' means 'to await' or 'to expect' and is often used in writing or in slightly more formal contexts. Both are correct, but 'esperar' is used much more in daily conversation.
Is 'aguarda' only used for people?
No. While it often refers to people waiting, it can also refer to things. For example, 'La sorpresa aguarda en la caja' (The surprise awaits in the box).