esperando
“esperando” means “waiting” in Spanish (for someone or something to arrive).
waiting, hoping, expecting
📝 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.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: esperando
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence best translates to 'I'm hoping to see you soon'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the verb 'esperar', which grew out of the Latin word 'spērāre'. This Latin word meant 'to hope' or 'to look for with expectation.'
First recorded: The root verb appeared in writings around the 12th century.
Cognates (Related words)
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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'.