esperando
/es-peh-RAHN-doh/
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Estoy esperando el autobús.
A1I'm waiting for the bus.
Mi hermana está esperando un bebé.
A2My sister is expecting a baby.
Sigo esperando que me llames.
B1I'm still hoping that you'll call me.
Llevo dos horas esperando aquí.
B1I've been waiting here for two hours.
💡 Grammar Points
The Spanish '-ing' Form
'Esperando' is the '-ing' version of the verb 'esperar'. You almost always use it with a helper verb like 'estar' (to be) to talk about an action happening right now. Think of 'estar' + '-ando' as the Spanish recipe for 'is/am/are' + '-ing'.
Three Meanings in One
Unlike English, Spanish uses 'esperando' for 'waiting', 'hoping', and 'expecting'. The meaning is usually very clear from the rest of the sentence.
❌ Common Pitfalls
'Waiting for' is built-in
Mistake: "Estoy esperando por el tren."
Correction: Estoy esperando el tren. The verb 'esperar' already includes the idea of 'for', so you don't need to add an extra word like 'por' or 'para'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Show an Action is Ongoing
Use 'esperando' with verbs like 'seguir' (to keep) or 'llevar' (to have been) to stress that an action is continuing. For example, 'Llevo una hora esperando' means 'I've been waiting for an hour'.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: esperando
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence best translates to 'I'm hoping to see you soon'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if 'esperando' means waiting, hoping, or expecting?
You can tell from the words around it! If it's followed by a person or a thing (like 'el tren'), it usually means 'waiting'. If it's followed by 'que' or another verb (like 'verte'), it often means 'hoping'. If it's about a future event or a baby, it means 'expecting'.
Can I use 'esperando' by itself?
Not usually. 'Esperando' is like the '-ing' part of a verb. It needs a helper verb before it to make sense, most commonly 'estar'. For example, you say 'Estoy esperando' (I am waiting), not just 'Esperando'.