aprender
“aprender” means “to learn” in Spanish (acquiring knowledge or skill).
to learn, to find out
Also: to master, to take a lesson
📝 In Action
¿Dónde puedo aprender español?
A1Where can I learn Spanish?
Mi hijo está aprendiendo a leer en la escuela.
A2My son is learning to read at school.
Aprendimos la noticia por la radio esta mañana.
A2We found out the news on the radio this morning.
Siempre se puede aprender de los errores del pasado.
B1You can always learn from past mistakes.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
🔀 Commonly Confused With
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: aprender
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'aprender' to talk about gaining a skill?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin verb *apprehendere*, which originally meant 'to grasp, seize, or take hold of.' Over time, the physical meaning of 'grasping' evolved into the mental meaning of 'grasping knowledge.'
First recorded: Early Medieval Spanish (circa 11th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'aprender' and 'estudiar'?
'Aprender' focuses on the *result*—the acquisition of knowledge or a skill (I learned Spanish). 'Estudiar' focuses on the *process*—the act of dedicating time to books, classes, or effort (I studied for the test). You can study without learning, but you can't learn without some form of study or experience.
How do I say 'I taught him Spanish' using 'aprender'?
You can't. 'Aprender' means 'to learn.' The correct verb for 'to teach' is 'enseñar.' The sentence would be 'Yo le enseñé español.'