Inklingo

How to Say "going through" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pasando

/pa-san-do//paˈsando/

Verb Form (Gerund)A2General
Use 'pasando' when referring to something that is currently happening or unfolding, often observable.
A bright red passenger train engine moving quickly past a small, stationary blue train station building.

Examples

¿Qué está pasando aquí?

What is happening here?

Estaba pasando por tu calle cuando te vi.

I was passing by your street when I saw you.

Lo estamos pasando muy bien en las vacaciones.

We are having a very good time on vacation.

The Spanish '-ing' Form

'Pasando' is the '-ing' version of the verb 'pasar'. You almost always use it right after a form of 'estar' (to be) to describe an action that is happening right now. For example, 'Estoy pasando' means 'I am passing'.

Not for Everything '-ing'

Mistake: “Using 'pasando' as a descriptive word, like 'un tren pasando' for 'a passing train'.”

Correction: In English, '-ing' words can describe nouns (a 'running' man). In Spanish, you can't usually do this. You would say 'un tren que pasa' (a train that is passing). 'Pasando' is for actions in progress, not descriptions.

viviendo

/vee-vee-EN-doh//bi'βjen̪do/

Verb FormB1General
Use 'viviendo' when describing the experience of enduring or dealing with a significant, often challenging, situation.
A young, joyful person standing on a grassy hill with arms outstretched at sunset, feeling the strong wind, symbolizing undergoing an experience.

Examples

Estamos viviendo momentos de mucha tensión política.

We are experiencing moments of great political tension.

Ella sigue viviendo el recuerdo de aquel viaje.

She continues to live (or cherish) the memory of that trip.

Si estás viviendo un período de estrés, busca ayuda.

If you are going through a period of stress, seek help.

Figurative Use

When used figuratively, 'viviendo' emphasizes the duration and emotional depth of the experience, suggesting the situation is currently unfolding or consuming attention.

Pasando vs. Viviendo

Learners often confuse 'pasando' and 'viviendo' by using 'pasando' for difficult personal experiences. Remember, 'viviendo' specifically implies enduring or living through something, especially if it's tough.

Related Translations

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