ganas
“ganas” means “desire” in Spanish (strong wish or longing).
desire, inclination
Also: willpower, urge
📝 In Action
¿Tienes ganas de ir al cine esta noche?
A1Do you feel like going to the movies tonight?
No tengo ningunas ganas de trabajar hoy.
A2I have absolutely no desire to work today.
Ella estudió con muchas ganas y sacó una A.
B1She studied with a lot of enthusiasm/effort and got an A.
Si de verdad tienes ganas, lo lograrás.
B2If you truly have the will/motivation, you will achieve it.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ganas
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly expresses the idea of 'I feel like eating pizza'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word comes from the Old Spanish verb *ganar* (to acquire or gain). Originally, 'ganas' meant the 'gains' or 'profits' received. Over time, it shifted in meaning to refer to the 'desire' or 'will' you have to do something, linking the idea of acquiring something with the strong motivation to achieve it.
First recorded: Medieval Spanish (approx. 13th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'ganas' usually plural?
In modern Spanish, *ganas* has standardized as a plural noun, even when referring to a single desire. Think of it as 'having desires' or 'having the will,' which sounds slightly more intense than a simple 'want.'
What is the difference between 'Quiero...' and 'Tengo ganas de...'?
*Quiero* means a general or long-term desire ('I want a house'). *Tengo ganas de* is usually reserved for transient, immediate urges or inclinations ('I feel like having ice cream right now').