Madeline Mamie
When learning a new language, it’s important to understand how to express different verbs and their corresponding meanings. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “getting” in Spanish, both formally and informally. Whether you’re traveling to a Spanish-speaking country or simply expanding your language skills, these tips and examples will be invaluable.
Formal Ways to Say “Getting” in Spanish
1. Obtener: This verb is commonly used in formal contexts and translates to “to obtain” or “to receive.” It can be utilized in a wide range of situations, such as obtaining information, materials, or a degree. Here are some examples:
Estoy obteniendo mi título universitario. (I am getting my university degree.)
Debemos obtener más detalles sobre el proyecto. (We need to get more details about the project.)
2. Adquirir: This formal verb means “to acquire” or “to get.” It often implies a more intentional or deliberate action of obtaining something. Here are a few examples:
Voy a adquirir nuevos conocimientos en este curso. (I am going to get new knowledge in this course.)
Es importante adquirir experiencia laboral antes de buscar un trabajo. (It is important to get work experience before looking for a job.)
3. Conseguir: This is a versatile verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It means “to obtain,” “to get,” or “to achieve.” However, in formal situations, it is often better to use other verbs like “obtener” or “adquirir.” Here are a few examples:
Vamos a conseguir más inversores para el proyecto. (We are going to get more investors for the project.)
¿Puedo conseguir una copia de ese informe? (Can I obtain a copy of that report?)
Informal Ways to Say “Getting” in Spanish
1. Agarrar: This informal verb is widely used among Spanish speakers to mean “to grab” or “to get.” It is commonly used in everyday conversations or casual situations. Here are some examples:
Agarra el libro que está sobre la mesa. (Get the book that is on the table.)
Necesito agarrar un poco de comida antes de salir. (I need to grab some food before leaving.)
2. Conseguir: As mentioned earlier, “conseguir” is a versatile verb that can be used both formally and informally. In informal contexts, it is often used to mean “to get” or “to find.” Here are a few examples:
Voy a conseguir boletos para el concierto. (I am going to get tickets for the concert.)
¿Has conseguido trabajo? (Have you found a job?)
3. Agenciar: This informal verb is less common, but it can be used to mean “to get” or “to obtain.” It is most often used in certain regions or countries, so you may encounter it less frequently. Here are a couple of examples:
Voy a agenciar una bicicleta nueva. (I am going to get a new bicycle.)
¿Dónde puedo agenciar una camiseta de mi equipo favorito? (Where can I get a shirt from my favorite team?)
Regional Variations
Spanish is a wonderfully diverse language, and different regions may have their own variations for saying “getting.” Here are a few examples:
In Mexico and some Central American countries, people might use “conseguir” or “agarrar” more frequently:
¡Vamos a conseguir pescado fresco para la cena! (Let’s get fresh fish for dinner!) – Mexico
Agarra tu sombrero y vámonos. (Grab your hat and let’s go.) – Mexico
In Spain, “coger” is often used conversationally to mean “to get” or “to grab.” However, it is considered a bit more colloquial and may not be appropriate for formal contexts:
Voy a coger el tren de las 10:00 am. (I am going to take the 10:00 am train.) – Spain
¿Puedes cogerme algo de beber? (Can you get/grab me something to drink?) – Spain
Conclusion
Knowing how to say “getting” in Spanish, both formally and informally, is crucial for effective communication. Remember to adapt your word choice based on the formality of the situation and the region you are in. Whether you use “obtener” and “adquirir” in formal settings or “agarrar” and “conseguir” in informal conversations, practice and exposure will help you become more fluent in expressing this essential verb. ¡Buena suerte!
