What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb esperar (to wait/hope) and the prepositional phrase con ansias (with eagerness or longing).
Which one should you use?
Different Spanish expressions vary by level of excitement and formality. Espero con ansias is a formal way to say 'I am eagerly awaiting'. Estoy deseando is a simple and informal way to convey excitement, while Tengo muchas ganas de conveys a strong desire or eagerness. In formal business correspondence, instead of expressing excitement, one might use quedo a la espera de to mean 'I look forward to hearing from you'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Espero con ansias is a formal way to express anticipation. For more casual settings, you can use Estoy deseando or Tengo muchas ganas de.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American countries, such as Mexico and Colombia, it is common to hear the phrase Estoy ansioso/a used informally to express anticipation. In Spain, ansioso/a tends to carry a stronger connotation of anxiety and might not be as commonly used to express anticipation.
How does it change in a sentence?
When followed by an action, use the infinitive form of the verb rather than a gerund.
Did you know?
- The word ansias used in the phrase espero con ansias is the plural form of ansia, which historically referred to a physical gasping for breath or a suffocating sensation.
- The word ansia is a cognate of the English word 'anguish', highlighting the intense, almost painful nature of the longing expressed in espero con ansias.
- Although estoy deseando is used for anticipation, the verb desear is also the primary word for 'to desire' in a romantic or sexual sense.
Examples in context
- Espero con ansias la oportunidad de trabajar con ustedI am eagerly awaiting the opportunity to work with you
- Me ilusiona la idea de colaborar en su proyectoI am looking forward to collaborating on your project
- Estoy deseando ir a la fiestaI am looking forward to going to the party
- Tengo muchas ganas de verlosI am really looking forward to seeing you all
- No puedo esperar para ver la películaI can't wait to watch the movie
- Espero con ansias verte.I am looking forward to seeing you.
- Espero con ansias mi próximo viaje.I am looking forward to my next trip.
- Espero con ansias verte de nuevo.I am looking forward to seeing you again.
- Espero con ansias las vacaciones de verano.I am looking forward to the summer holidays.
Example conversation
Mateo and María are talking about a concert next week.
- MateoEspero con ansias el concierto del sábado.I am looking forward to the concert on Saturday.
- MaríaYo también, será muy divertido.Me too, it will be very fun.
- MateoMaría, ¿compraste ya las entradas?María, did you buy the tickets already?
- MaríaSí, ya las tengo conmigo.Yes, I have them with me.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
