apuntando
/ah-poon-TAHN-doh/
pointing
Apuntando can mean pointing at something to show direction or focus.
apuntando(verb)
pointing
?using a finger or object to show direction
,aiming
?directing a weapon or tool at a target
indicating
?suggesting a specific result or direction
📝 In Action
El niño está apuntando a las estrellas con su dedo.
A1The boy is pointing at the stars with his finger.
El arquero se quedó quieto, apuntando al centro de la diana.
B1The archer stood still, aiming at the center of the target.
💡 Grammar Points
The '-ing' Form
This word is a 'gerund.' Just like you add '-ing' in English, Spanish adds '-ando' to '-ar' verbs to show an action is happening right now.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using it as a Noun
Mistake: "Using 'apuntando' to mean 'the pointing' as a subject."
Correction: Use the base form 'apuntar' or 'el hecho de apuntar' instead. 'Apuntando' is only for the action of doing it.
⭐ Usage Tips
Pair with 'Estar'
To say 'I am pointing,' always use the word 'estoy' before 'apuntando'.
Apuntando also refers to the act of writing down or taking notes.
apuntando(verb)
writing down
?taking notes or recording info
,noting
?making a quick record of something
signing up
?adding a name to a list (usually reflexive: apuntándose)
📝 In Action
Ella está apuntando los ingredientes de la receta.
A2She is writing down the ingredients for the recipe.
Sigue hablando, lo estoy apuntando todo.
B1Keep talking, I'm noting it all down.
💡 Grammar Points
Taking Notes vs. Writing
While 'escribiendo' means the general act of writing, 'apuntando' specifically implies you are capturing information to remember it later.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: apuntando
Question 1 of 1
If you are in a meeting and someone gives you their phone number, what are you doing?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'apuntando' always mean pointing with a finger?
No. While it often describes pointing physically, it is very commonly used to mean 'writing down' or 'taking notes' in an academic or professional setting.
How do I say 'I am signing up'?
You use the reflexive form: 'Me estoy apuntando.' This is a common way to say you are joining a class or a club.