escuchaba
“escuchaba” means “was listening” in Spanish (action in progress in the past).
was listening, used to listenAlso: would listen
📝 In Action
Yo escuchaba música mientras limpiaba la casa.
A2I was listening to music while I was cleaning the house.
Mi abuelo siempre escuchaba la radio por la tarde.
A2My grandfather always used to listen to the radio in the afternoon.
Él no me escuchaba cuando yo hablaba.
B1He wasn't listening to me when I was talking.
Word Connections
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
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Words that translate to "escuchaba" in Spanish:
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: escuchaba
Question 1 of 2
If you want to say 'I used to listen to the radio every day,' which word do you use?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
📚 Etymology
From the Latin word 'auscultare,' which means to listen with care or to give an ear to.
First recorded: 12th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'escuchaba' and 'oía'?
'Escuchaba' means you were paying attention (listening), while 'oía' means you simply perceived a sound (hearing).
How do I know if 'escuchaba' means 'I' or 'He'?
Context usually tells you! If it's not clear, Spanish speakers will add 'Yo' or 'Él' to the sentence.