sorprender
“sorprender” means “to surprise” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to surprise, to amaze
Also: to astonish
📝 In Action
Quiero sorprender a mi madre con un regalo especial.
A2I want to surprise my mother with a special gift.
Sus habilidades para el piano me sorprenden mucho.
B1His piano skills surprise me a lot.
Me sorprende que todavía no hayas terminado la tarea.
B2It surprises me that you haven't finished your homework yet.
to catch
Also: to catch out
📝 In Action
La policía sorprendió al ladrón dentro de la casa.
B1The police caught the thief inside the house.
Me sorprendieron comiendo chocolate a medianoche.
B1They caught me eating chocolate at midnight.
Si te sorprenden copiando, suspenderás el examen.
B2If they catch you cheating, you will fail the exam.
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Indicative
Present
Preterite
Imperfect
🔀 Commonly Confused With
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: sorprender
Question 1 of 3
How do you say 'It surprises me'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin prefix 'super-' (above/over) and the verb 'prehendere' (to seize or catch). Essentially, it means to 'catch from above' or overtake someone unexpectedly.
First recorded: 13th 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 'sorprender' and 'asombrar'?
They are very similar, but 'asombrar' is often used for a stronger sense of wonder or being 'amazed,' while 'sorprender' is more general for any unexpected event.
Does 'sorprender' always need a direct object?
Usually, yes. You surprise 'someone' or 'something' catches 'someone.' If you want to say 'I am surprised,' you must use the reflexive 'Me sorprendo' or 'Estoy sorprendido'.
Is it a regular verb?
Yes, 'sorprender' follows all the regular patterns for verbs ending in -er.