Inklingo

How to Say "on foot" in Spanish

English → Spanish

andando

/an-DAHN-doh//anˈdando/

AdverbB1general
Use 'andando' when you want to specify the method of travel, indicating that the mode of transport is walking, often as an alternative to other options.
A close-up storybook illustration focusing on a pair of brown boots walking across a grassy field, representing travel by foot.

Examples

Es mejor ir andando que tomar el autobús, está muy cerca.

It is better to go on foot than to take the bus; it's very close.

Llegamos andando a la cima de la colina.

We arrived at the top of the hill by walking/on foot.

El doctor me recomendó hacer más ejercicio andando.

The doctor recommended I get more exercise by walking.

Function as 'By Means Of'

When used as an adverb, 'andando' often answers the question 'How?' It means 'by walking' or 'using your feet,' similar to saying 'a pie' (on foot).

Redundancy with 'A Pie'

Mistake: “Saying 'Voy a pie andando.'”

Correction: Choose one: either 'Voy andando' or 'Voy a pie.' Both mean 'I am going on foot.'

caminando

kah-mee-NAHN-doh/kamiˈnando/

Verb Form (Gerund)A1general
Use 'caminando' when you are describing the action of walking as it is happening in the present moment, focusing on the act itself rather than the mode of travel.
A cheerful, simplified human figure is shown in mid-stride, actively walking across a bright green grassy field, illustrating movement.

Examples

Estoy caminando a casa ahora mismo.

I am walking home right now.

¿Qué estás haciendo? Estamos caminando por el parque.

What are you doing? We are walking through the park.

Ella aprendió mucho caminando con su abuela.

She learned a lot while walking with her grandmother.

Continuous Action

This word is the '-ando' form (like English '-ing'). You use it right after the verb 'estar' (to be) to show an action is happening in the present moment: 'Estoy caminando' (I am walking).

Always Unchanging

Unlike adjectives, 'caminando' always stays the same. It never changes to match gender (masculine/feminine) or number (singular/plural) of the person doing the action.

Using 'Ser' instead of 'Estar'

Mistake: “Soy caminando.”

Correction: The correct verb for ongoing actions is 'estar': 'Estoy caminando.' 'Ser' is used for permanent qualities, not temporary actions.

Choosing Between 'Andando' and 'Caminando'

Learners often confuse 'andando' and 'caminando' because both relate to walking. Remember that 'andando' functions more like an adverb to describe the means of travel (on foot), while 'caminando' is a verb form describing the action of walking as it occurs.

Related Translations

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