How to Say "to groan" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to groan” is “gemir” — use 'gemir' when the sound is a deep vocalization indicating significant pain, suffering, or despair.
heh-MEERxeˈmiɾ
Examples
El herido empezó a gemir mientras esperaba la ambulancia.
The injured man began to groan while waiting for the ambulance.
El perro gime frente a la puerta porque quiere salir.
The dog is whining at the door because he wants to go out.
Gimió de dolor cuando el doctor tocó su pierna.
He groaned with pain when the doctor touched his leg.
The 'E' to 'I' Switch
In many forms, the 'e' in gemir changes to an 'i'. Think of it like the word 'pedir'. This happens in the present tense (gimo) and even in the 'they' form of the past (gimieron).
Using 'de' for the Cause
When you want to say why someone is moaning, use 'de'. For example: 'gemir de tristeza' (to moan with sadness).
Gemir vs. Quejarse
Mistake: “Using gemir to mean 'complaining' about a situation.”
Correction: Use 'quejarse' for verbal complaints. 'Gemir' is specifically the physical sound made by the throat.
keh-HAR-sehkeˈxaɾse
Examples
El paciente se quejaba de un fuerte dolor en la pierna.
The patient was groaning from a strong pain in his leg.
Oí a alguien quejarse en la otra habitación.
I heard someone groaning in the other room.
Physical sounds
When used for physical pain, the verb still requires the reflexive pronouns (me, te, se, etc.).
Gemir vs. Quejarse
Learners often confuse 'gemir' and 'quejarse'. Remember that 'gemir' is a deeper, more visceral sound of pain or despair, while 'quejarse' is more of an audible complaint about discomfort or pain.
Related Translations
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.