Inklingo

How to Say "they grasp" in Spanish

The Spanish word forthey graspis entiendenA1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.

English → SpanishA1
VerbA1
Figurative understanding.
A storybook illustration showing three smiling figures nodding in agreement while looking at a simple, brightly colored diagram on an easel, symbolizing shared understanding.

Examples

¿Entienden la lección? Es muy importante.

Do they/you all understand the lesson? It's very important.

Mis padres no entienden mi trabajo en internet.

My parents don't understand my job on the internet.

Ellos entienden que la situación es complicada.

They grasp that the situation is complicated.

The 'E' to 'IE' Change

In the present tense, the 'e' in the middle of 'entender' changes to 'ie' in most forms (entiendo, entiendes, entiende, entienden), but NOT when talking about 'we' (entendemos) or 'y'all' in Spain (entendéis).

Indicative vs. Subjunctive

'Entienden' is the normal way to state a fact (They understand). 'Entiendan' (with the 'a') is the special form used for wishes or commands (I hope they understand).

Missing the Stem Change

Mistake:Ellos *entendemos*.

Correction: Ellos *entienden*. Remember, the stem change happens when the vowel is stressed, which is the case for the 'they' form.

Using 'Saber' for Comprehension

Mistake:Ellos *saben* la explicación.

Correction: Ellos *entienden* la explicación. Use *saber* for facts or skills ('They know Paris'); use *entender* for grasping meaning ('They understand the concept').

Related Translations

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