How to Say "looking after" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “looking after” is “cuidando” — A1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
Mi hermana está cuidando a mis perros este fin de semana.
My sister is taking care of my dogs this weekend.
Están cuidando mucho la salud de su abuelo.
They are paying a lot of attention to their grandfather's health (They are taking good care of his health).
El jardinero lleva meses cuidando esas rosas tan delicadas.
The gardener has been looking after those delicate roses for months.
The Continuous Action Form
Cuidando is the Spanish equivalent of the '-ing' form in English. It describes an action that is currently in progress, just like 'taking care' or 'looking after'.
Using 'Estar'
To show that the action is happening right now, you must use a form of the verb 'estar' (to be) followed by 'cuidando' (e.g., 'estoy cuidando').
Invariable Ending
Unlike adjectives, 'cuidando' never changes its ending. It is always 'cuidando,' regardless of who is doing the caring (yo, ellos, nosotros, etc.).
Using 'Ser' Instead of 'Estar'
Mistake: “Soy cuidando a mi gato.”
Correction: Estoy cuidando a mi gato. Remember to use 'estar' when talking about temporary or ongoing actions.
Attaching Pronouns Incorrectly
Mistake: “Lo estoy cuidando.”
Correction: Estoy cuidándolo (or Lo estoy cuidando). Pronouns like 'lo' (it) can go before 'estar' OR attached to the end of 'cuidando'.
Related Translations
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