Inklingo

How to Say "believing" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “believing” is “creyendo” — use 'creyendo' when you are actively engaged in the process of having faith or accepting something as true. It functions as the present participle of the verb 'creer'.

English → Spanish

creyendo

kray-YEN-dohkɾeˈʝendo

verbA2general
Use 'creyendo' when you are actively engaged in the process of having faith or accepting something as true. It functions as the present participle of the verb 'creer'.
A child in a garden looking hopefully at a tiny green sprout growing from the soil.

Examples

Sigo creyendo que es posible.

I keep believing that it is possible.

Se pasó el día creyendo que era viernes.

He spent the whole day thinking it was Friday.

Creyendo en ti mismo, llegarás lejos.

By believing in yourself, you will go far.

The Spelling Shift

In Spanish, if an 'i' is caught between two vowels in a verb ending, it turns into a 'y'. That is why we say 'creyendo' instead of 'creiendo'.

Ongoing Actions

You use this word with 'estar' (to be) to show that you are in the middle of believing or thinking something right now.

Avoid the double 'i'

Mistake: “creiendo”

Correction: creyendo; the 'y' is necessary to keep the sound flowing between the 'e' and the 'e'.

creyente

kreh-YEHN-tehkɾeˈjente

adjectiveB1general
Use 'creyente' to describe a person who possesses faith or religious conviction. It acts as an adjective modifying a noun (person).
A person looking up at a bright, glowing star with a peaceful and trusting expression.

Examples

Crecí en una familia muy creyente.

I grew up in a very devout family.

Es una persona creyente que reza todos los días.

They are a believing person who prays every day.

Using 'Ser' for permanent traits

Use the verb 'ser' with creyente (e.g., 'Soy creyente') because it describes a fundamental part of someone's identity or character.

Gender agreement

Mistake: “Ella es creyenta.”

Correction: Ella es creyente.

Verb vs. Adjective

The most common mistake is using 'creyente' when you mean the action of believing. Remember, 'creyendo' is the ongoing action (like 'believing'), while 'creyente' describes a person who is a believer.

Related Translations

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