ganarse
“ganarse” means “to earn” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
to earn
Also: to make a living
📝 In Action
Ella se gana la vida como diseñadora gráfica.
A2She earns a living as a graphic designer.
Es difícil ganarse el pan en estos tiempos.
B1It's hard to put food on the table (earn bread) these days.
to earn / to win
📝 In Action
Se ganó el respeto de sus rivales.
B1He earned the respect of his rivals.
Tienes que ganarte su confianza poco a poco.
B1You have to win her trust bit by bit.
to place oneself / to stand
📝 In Action
Gánate por aquí para que veas mejor.
C1Stand over here so you can see better.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ganarse
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly says 'I earn a living as a teacher'?
📚 More Resources
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Spanish verb 'ganar' (to win/earn), which likely comes from a Gothic or Germanic word meaning 'to covet' or 'to eye greedily,' evolving into 'to obtain through effort.'
First recorded: 13th Century (as ganar)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'ganar' and 'ganarse'?
'Ganar' is usually used for winning a game or earning a specific amount of money (e.g., 'Gané el partido'). 'Ganarse' is used for the ongoing process of earning a living or deserving something abstract like respect or trust.
Is 'ganarse' always reflexive?
Yes, when it has these specific meanings of earning for oneself or winning someone over, it must include the reflexive pronouns (me, te, se, nos, os, se).