espera — meaning in English: wait

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esposo

doy

tienen

espera

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neutral very common

Usage

Spanish speakers commonly use 'espera' in everyday situations, such as asking someone to hold on while they finish a task. For example, if you're on a phone call and need a moment, you might say, 'Espera un momento, por favor.' It's also frequently used in public settings, like waiting in line at a store, when someone asks you to be patient.

Synonyms & nuances

'Espera' is often compared with 'aguardar,' which also means 'to wait.' However, 'aguardar' carries a slightly more formal tone and is less frequently used in casual conversation. You would choose 'espera' for everyday situations, while 'aguardar' might be better suited for written contexts or more formal dialogues.

Culture

'Espera' comes from the Latin word 'spera,' which means 'to hope.' This connection reflects a cultural aspect of patience and anticipation inherent in the Spanish language. In Spain, waiting is often viewed not just as a pause but as an integral part of many social interactions, emphasizing the importance of taking time to connect with others.

FAQ

Q.How do you use 'espera' in a sentence?

'Espera' can be used to ask someone to wait, such as in the phrase, 'Espera aquí,' meaning 'Wait here.' It's versatile in both commands and polite requests, making it a common choice in conversation.

Q.What is the correct conjugation of 'esperar'?

'Esperar' is a regular -ar verb. In the present tense, it is conjugated as: yo espero, tú esperas, él/ella espera, nosotros esperamos, and ellos/ellas esperan.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'espera'?

One common mistake is using 'espera' without context, making it sound abrupt. It's usually more polite to include a subject or additional context, such as 'Espera un momento, por favor' to soften the request.

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