preguntando
“preguntando” means “asking” in Spanish (as in 'She is asking').
askingAlso: inquiring
📝 In Action
Ella está preguntando por el horario del tren.
A1She is asking about the train schedule.
Pasé toda la mañana preguntando a los vecinos sobre el ruido.
B1I spent all morning asking the neighbors about the noise.
Los niños se quedaron preguntando si Papa Noel vendría.
A2The children kept asking if Santa Claus would come.
Word Connections
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: preguntando
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'preguntando' to express an action happening right now?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
📚 Etymology
The verb 'preguntar' comes from the Latin verb *percontari*, which meant 'to question thoroughly' or 'to inquire deeply'. The Spanish word simplified the sound over centuries, keeping the core meaning of seeking information.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'preguntando' and 'pide'?
'Preguntando' is the 'ing' form of 'preguntar' (to ask a question or seek information). 'Pide' is the conjugated form of 'pedir' (to ask for something, like an object or a favor). For example: 'Está preguntando por ti' (He is asking about you) vs. 'Está pidiendo un favor' (He is asking for a favor).
Can I use 'preguntando' without 'estar'?
Yes, but its meaning changes slightly. When used alone or with other verbs, it acts like an adverb, describing *how* an action is done. Example: 'Aprendió preguntando' (He learned by asking/inquiring).