When learning a new language, it is essential to master everyday vocabulary, including words related to borrowing and lending. In this guide, we will explore how to say “borrow” in Spanish, providing both formal and informal expressions. Additionally, we will offer tips and examples to help you understand the usage of these phrases. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Borrow
1. Pedir prestado:
“Pedir prestado” is the most commonly used formal phrase to express borrowing in Spanish. It directly translates to “to ask to borrow.” This expression follows a simple structure:
Example:
¿Puedo pedir prestado tu libro? – Can I borrow your book?
2. Solicitar un préstamo:
If you are borrowing something more significant, such as money or a loan, you can use the phrase “solicitar un préstamo,” which means “to request a loan.”
Example:
Voy a solicitar un préstamo al banco para comprar una casa nueva. – I’m going to request a loan from the bank to buy a new house.
3. Hacer un préstamo:
When discussing lending and borrowing in a more official setting, such as a business transaction, you can use the phrase “hacer un préstamo,” which means “to make a loan.”
Example:
Nuestra empresa ha decidido hacer un préstamo para expandir el negocio. – Our company has decided to make a loan to expand the business.
Informal Ways to Say Borrow
1. Prestar:
The word “prestar” itself means “to lend,” but it can also be used to express borrowing in informal contexts. In these situations, it implies a mutual understanding without explicitly saying who is lending and who is borrowing.
Example:
¿Me puedes prestar tu bicicleta para ir al parque? – Can you lend me your bicycle to go to the park?
2. Agarrar prestado:
In some informal settings, particularly in Latin America, the phrase “agarrar prestado” is used to mean “to borrow.” It may sound more casual or colloquial, so it might be best to use it among friends or in informal conversations.
Example:
Le agarré prestado su teléfono para hacer una llamada rápida. – I borrowed their phone to make a quick call.
Tips for Using Borrow Phrases
- Use formal expressions (pedir prestado, solicitar un préstamo, hacer un préstamo) in professional or official situations.
- Precede the verb with the appropriate pronoun to indicate who is borrowing and who the action is directed towards.
- When using informal phrases (prestar, agarrar prestado), it is common to clarify what is being borrowed to avoid confusion.
- Remember that Spanish has different verb conjugations, so modify the phrases based on the subject and tense of your sentence.
Conclusion
Learning how to say “borrow” in Spanish is crucial for effective communication in daily life. By mastering the formal expressions like “pedir prestado” and “solicitar un préstamo,” you will be prepared for formal scenarios, while the informal phrases such as “prestar” and “agarrar prestado” will help you in casual conversations. Remember to adapt the phrases based on the context, and don’t forget the tips provided to enhance your understanding of borrowing in Spanish.
¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
