Inklingo

How to Say "practicing" in Spanish

English → Spanish

practicando

/prak-ti-KAN-do//pɾaktiˈkando/

Verbal Adverb (Gerund)A1general
Use 'practicando' when referring to the act of working on or improving a specific skill through repetition, such as a language, an instrument, or a sport technique.
A child intently juggling three brightly colored balls, demonstrating the effort of practicing a skill.

Examples

Estoy practicando mi pronunciación todos los días.

I am practicing my pronunciation every day.

Mi hermana está practicando la natación para la competencia.

My sister is practicing swimming for the competition.

Practicando con constancia, verás resultados rápidos.

By practicing consistently, you will see fast results. (Here, it means 'By means of practicing')

The Continuous Action Form

In Spanish, we use the verb 'estar' (to be) followed by 'practicando' to say that the action is happening right now, just like the '-ing' form in English. (E.g., Estoy practicando = I am practicing.)

Function as an Adverb

This form can also explain HOW something is done, or WHEN. For example: 'Practicando, lo lograrás' means 'By practicing, you will achieve it.'

Using 'Ser' instead of 'Estar'

Mistake: “Soy practicando.”

Correction: The correct verb is always 'estar' when talking about an action happening in the moment: 'Estoy practicando.' (I am practicing.)

entrenando

/en-treh-NAN-doh//entɾeˈnando/

verbA2general
Use 'entrenando' when the practice involves rigorous, repetitive exercise or rehearsal with the goal of physical preparation, performance, or a specific event.
A person in athletic clothes jogging along a bright, sunny park path.

Examples

Estoy entrenando para el maratón de la próxima semana.

I am training for the marathon next week.

Llevamos tres horas entrenando en la cancha.

We have been practicing on the court for three hours.

Ella está entrenando a los nuevos empleados.

She is training the new employees.

The '-ando' ending

In Spanish, the '-ando' ending is just like the English '-ing' ending for 'ar' verbs. It shows that the action is happening right now.

Pairing with 'Estar'

To say 'I am training,' you must use the verb 'estar' (to be) followed by 'entrenando.' Example: 'Estoy entrenando.'

Don't use as a noun

Mistake: “Me gusta el entrenando.”

Correction: Me gusta el entrenamiento. Use 'entrenamiento' for the noun (the workout) and 'entrenando' only for the action.

Practicing vs. Training

The most common mistake is using 'entrenando' for general skill improvement. Remember, 'entrenando' is typically for physical exertion or intense preparation for an event, while 'practicando' is for honing any skill, from playing the piano to speaking a language.

Related Translations

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