Inklingo

How to Say "developing" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word fordevelopingis construyendouse 'construyendo' when referring to the act of building or creating something tangible or abstract, like a career, an argument, or a system..

English → Spanish

construyendo

/kons-tru-YEN-doh//konstɾuˈʝendo/

Verb Form (Gerund)B2General
Use 'construyendo' when referring to the act of building or creating something tangible or abstract, like a career, an argument, or a system.
A thoughtful person sits at a wooden table, carefully stacking three colorful, distinct wooden blocks to form a stable tower, symbolizing the development of an idea or system.

Examples

Ella está construyendo su carrera profesional con mucho esfuerzo.

She is building (developing) her professional career with great effort.

Los diplomáticos están construyendo la base de un nuevo acuerdo de paz.

The diplomats are building (establishing) the foundation for a new peace agreement.

Estamos construyendo una narrativa que justifique nuestras acciones.

We are constructing a narrative that justifies our actions.

Abstract Use

Just like in English, 'construyendo' can refer to creating something non-physical, like an idea, a career, or a relationship. It still implies a continuous, ongoing effort.

creciendo

/kreh-see-en-doh//kɾeˈθjendo/

Verb (Present Participle / Gerund)B2General
Use 'creciendo' when referring to personal growth, maturation, or the acquisition of new skills and knowledge over time.
A child's hands successfully placing the last piece into a colorful, simple jigsaw puzzle, symbolizing the development of skill.

Examples

Ella está creciendo como profesional en su nuevo puesto.

She is developing (maturing) as a professional in her new position.

El equipo sigue creciendo en confianza después de ganar el campeonato.

The team continues to grow in confidence after winning the championship.

Nuestra comprensión del universo está creciendo gracias a nuevas tecnologías.

Our understanding of the universe is evolving (growing) thanks to new technologies.

Mental Growth

When used with abstract concepts like 'fe' (faith) or 'conocimiento' (knowledge), 'creciendo' implies a steady process of gaining depth or strength.

Building vs. Growing

Learners often confuse 'construyendo' and 'creciendo' by using 'construyendo' for personal growth. Remember, 'construyendo' is for actively creating or building something, while 'creciendo' implies a more natural, organic process of maturing or gaining expertise.

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