entrenar
“entrenar” means “to train” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to train, to coach
Also: to drill
📝 In Action
El profesor entrena a los estudiantes para el debate.
A2The teacher trains the students for the debate.
Necesitamos entrenar al perro para que no ladre tanto.
B1We need to train the dog so it doesn't bark so much.
Mi meta es entrenar un equipo campeón.
B2My goal is to coach a champion team.
to work out, to train (oneself)
Also: to practice
📝 In Action
Me entreno en el gimnasio tres veces a la semana.
A1I work out at the gym three times a week.
¿A qué hora te entrenas normalmente?
A2What time do you usually train (yourself)?
Ella se entrena muy duro para la maratón.
B1She is training very hard for the marathon.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: entrenar
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'entrenar' to mean 'I work out daily'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Old French word 'entraîner' (to drag along, lead), which originally referred to leading or guiding horses. This meaning evolved into guiding people, especially in preparation for a competition or skill.
First recorded: 15th century (in Spanish usage)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
¿Cuál es la diferencia entre 'entrenar' y 'practicar'?
'Entrenar' focuses on physical or mental conditioning and preparation, often with a specific goal like a race or competition. 'Practicar' is generally used for repeatedly doing an activity to improve a skill, like 'practicar la guitarra' (to practice the guitar).
When should I use 'entrenar' and when should I use 'ejercitar'?
Both mean 'to exercise,' but 'entrenar' often implies a structured, goal-oriented routine (like training for a marathon). 'Ejercitar' is a more general term for physical activity, like 'ejercitar los músculos' (to exercise the muscles).