esperan
“esperan” means “they wait” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
they wait, you (plural) wait
Also: they are waiting
📝 In Action
Ellos esperan el autobús en la parada.
A1They are waiting for the bus at the stop.
¿Cuánto tiempo esperan ustedes por el doctor?
A2How long are you (plural) waiting for the doctor?
Esperan pacientemente que termine la reunión.
B1They wait patiently for the meeting to end.
they hope, they expect
Also: you (plural) hope
📝 In Action
Esperan que las negociaciones terminen pronto.
B1They hope the negotiations end soon.
Los científicos esperan encontrar una cura.
B2The scientists expect (or hope) to find a cure.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: esperan
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'esperan' to mean 'to hope'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin verb *sperare*, which meant 'to hope.' Over time, its meaning expanded to include the act of waiting, as waiting often involves hoping for something.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'esperar' sometimes mean 'to wait for' without 'por' or 'para'?
Unlike English, which needs 'for' (wait *for*), the Spanish verb 'esperar' is transitivo, meaning it directly connects to the person or thing being waited for. Just say 'Esperan el tren' (They wait the train).
Is 'esperan' only used for people?
No. 'Esperan' is the verb form used when the subject (who is doing the waiting or hoping) is plural (they/you all). The subject could be people, animals, or even groups like 'Los gobiernos esperan...' (The governments hope...).