The progressive form (also known as the present continuous) in Spanish brings actions to life! It describes things happening right now or unfolding soon. While most verbs fit this form, some are used more often than others. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore these commonly used verbs and how to use them like a pro.
Building the Progressive: A Quick Refresher
Before we get to the exciting verbs, let’s make sure we understand the structure of the progressive form:
estar + present participle (-ando/-iendo)
For example:
- Yo estoy hablando (I am speaking)
The Verbs You’ll Hear and Use All the Time
- Estar haciendo (to be doing)
- Example: Estoy haciendo mi tarea. (I am doing my homework.)
- Estar diciendo (to be saying)
- Example: ¿Qué estás diciendo? (What are you saying?)
- Estar pensando (to be thinking)
- Example: Estamos pensando en mudarnos. (We are thinking about moving.)
- Estar esperando (to be waiting)
- Example: Están esperando el autobús. (They are waiting for the bus.)
- Estar aprendiendo (to be learning)
- Example: Estoy aprendiendo español. (I am learning Spanish.)
- Estar comiendo (to be eating)
- Example: Los niños están comiendo helado. (The children are eating ice cream.)
- Estar trabajando (to be working)
- Example: Mi hermana está trabajando desde casa. (My sister is working from home.)
- Estar estudiando (to be studying)
- Example: ¿Estás estudiando para el examen? (Are you studying for the exam?)
- Estar jugando (to be playing)
- Example: Ellos están jugando al fútbol en el parque. (They are playing soccer in the park.)
- Estar viviendo (to be living)
- Example: Actualmente estoy viviendo en Madrid. (I am currently living in Madrid.)
Pro Tips for Practice and Usage
- Use the progressive to highlight actions in the present: Perfect for describing something happening at this very moment or in the near future.
- Conjugate “estar” but not the participle: Remember, change “estar” to match your subject, but leave the present participle as it is.
- Chat away! Practice using these common verbs in conversation to get comfortable with the progressive form. It’s the best way to make them second nature.
Verbs That Like to Stay Still
Just a heads-up, some verbs are hardly ever used in the progressive. These include:
- Ser (to be – permanent)
- Tener (to have)
- Saber (to know)
- Querer (to want)
- Gustar (to like)
Instead of saying “Estoy siendo feliz” (incorrect), you’d simply say “Soy feliz” (I am happy).
You’re on Your Way!
By mastering these everyday progressive verbs, you’ll paint vivid pictures with your Spanish. Keep practicing and listening to how native speakers use them. ¡Buena suerte con tu aprendizaje del español! (Good luck with your Spanish learning!)