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How to Say "inclination" in Spanish

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ganas

GAH-nahsˈɡanas

nounA1informal
Use 'ganas' when referring to a desire, feeling, or urge to do something, often in a casual or immediate context.
A simplified illustration showing a person reaching upwards with great effort towards a bright, shimmering star in the night sky.

Examples

¿Tienes ganas de ir al cine esta noche?

Do you feel like going to the movies tonight?

No tengo ningunas ganas de trabajar hoy.

I have absolutely no desire to work today.

Ella estudió con muchas ganas y sacó una A.

She studied with a lot of enthusiasm/effort and got an A.

Always Plural

Even though it refers to a single want or desire, ganas is almost always used in its plural feminine form, often requiring plural adjectives and articles if they are present.

The 'Tener Ganas' Structure

You express 'to want' or 'to feel like doing' something using the verb tener (to have): 'Tengo ganas de comer' (I have desires of eating = I feel like eating).

Using 'Ser' or 'Estar'

Mistake: “Soy ganas / Estoy ganas.”

Correction: Use *Tener* (to have). *Tengo ganas* is correct. Think of it as 'I possess the desire.'

Forgetting 'de'

Mistake: “Tengo ganas ir al parque.”

Correction: Always include the preposition *de* when followed by a verb: *Tengo ganas de ir* (I feel like going).

vocación

nounB1formal
Use 'vocación' when referring to a strong natural talent, calling, or deep-seated liking for a particular profession or activity.

Examples

Desde pequeña supe que mi verdadera vocación era la enseñanza.

Since I was little, I knew my true calling was teaching.

Ganas vs. Vocación

Learners often confuse 'ganas' and 'vocación' by using 'ganas' for a lifelong career path or innate talent. Remember, 'ganas' is about a temporary desire or feeling, while 'vocación' implies a deeper, more permanent calling.

Related Translations

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