retomar
“retomar” means “to resume” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to resume, to pick back up
Also: to revisit
📝 In Action
Después del almuerzo, vamos a retomar la reunión.
A2After lunch, we are going to resume the meeting.
He decidido retomar mis clases de piano.
B1I have decided to pick my piano lessons back up.
Es el momento perfecto para retomar aquel proyecto que abandonamos.
B2It is the perfect moment to revisit that project we abandoned.
to retake, to regain
📝 In Action
Las tropas retomaron la ciudad al amanecer.
B2The troops retook the city at dawn.
El equipo espera retomar el liderato en el próximo partido.
B2The team hopes to regain the lead in the next game.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: retomar
Question 1 of 3
If you stopped playing guitar for a year and start again, you are...
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the prefix 're-' (meaning again or back) and the verb 'tomar' (to take). Essentially meaning 'to take again.'
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'retomar' and 'continuar'?
While both mean to keep going, 'retomar' specifically implies that there was a pause or an interruption before starting again.
Can I use 'retomar' for people?
You can use it in the phrase 'retomar el contacto con alguien' to mean getting back in touch with someone.
Is 'retomar' common in everyday speech?
Yes, it is very common, especially when talking about work tasks, conversations, or personal habits like going to the gym.