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How to Say "pending" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pendiente

pen-DYEN-teh/penˈdjen.te/

adjectiveA2general
Use 'pendiente' when referring to tasks, items, or issues that are awaiting action or completion, but are still actively expected to be dealt with.
A small, tightly sealed wooden box resting on a clean, empty surface, tied with a simple red ribbon, symbolizing a task waiting to be dealt with.

Examples

Tengo muchos correos pendientes que responder.

I have many pending emails to answer.

Esa deuda sigue pendiente después de un mes.

That debt is still outstanding after a month.

Dejamos la conversación pendiente para mañana.

We left the conversation unfinished for tomorrow.

Adjective Agreement

As an adjective, 'pendiente' adjusts its ending to match the noun it describes (e.g., 'tareas pendientes', 'trabajo pendiente').

Using 'Estar' vs. 'Ser'

Mistake: “Misusing 'ser' instead of 'estar' (e.g., 'La tarea es pendiente').”

Correction: Use 'estar' to describe the temporary state of being unfinished: 'La tarea está pendiente'.

colgando

/kol-GAN-do//kolˈɣan.do/

adjective/adverbialB2general
Use 'colgando' when something has been left unfinished, unresolved, or in an uncertain state, often implying a delay or abandonment of action.
A small, simple wooden bridge crossing a stream has a noticeable, unfinished gap in the middle of the path.

Examples

Tenemos varios proyectos importantes que quedaron colgados.

We have several important projects that were left pending/unresolved.

Tenemos varios proyectos importantes que quedaron colgando.

We have several important projects that were left pending/unresolved.

La computadora se quedó colgando y tuve que reiniciarla.

The computer got stuck/froze and I had to restart it.

Use with QUEDAR

When used with the verb 'quedar' (to remain/to be left), 'colgando' describes the state of being unfinished or unresolved: 'El tema quedó colgando' (The topic was left unresolved).

Pendiente vs. Colgando

Learners often confuse 'pendiente' and 'colgando' by using 'colgando' for simple to-do items. Remember, 'pendiente' is for things awaiting your action, while 'colgando' implies a more unresolved or stalled situation.

Related Translations

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