estoy tomando clases
/estoi tomando klases/from spelling rules
The English phrase "I am taking classes" is translated into Spanish as estoy tomando clases.
This phrase is used to say that you are currently enrolled in and attending a course of study.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of estoy (I am), tomando (taking) and clases (classes).
Which one should you use?
If you are referring to a single specific course rather than multiple classes, use estoy tomando un curso instead of clases.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, you may hear Estoy haciendo un curso to mean "I am doing a course" or the phrase Estoy siguiendo una formación. In Mexico, you might say Estoy llevando clases or Estoy en clases instead of Estoy yendo a clases.
Did you know?
- While tomando translates to 'taking', the verb tomar is also used for drinking. In some contexts, saying you are tomando something can lead to a humorous misunderstanding that you are consuming it as a beverage.
- Spanish has a unique way of describing the 'taking' of classes through the verb cursar. While estoy tomando clases is common, estoy cursando is a specialized verb used specifically for the act of studying a curriculum.
- While English uses 'taking' to describe enrolling in a course, many Spanish speakers use the verb llevar, which literally translates to 'to carry' or 'to convey'.
Examples in context
- Estoy tomando clases de español para mi viaje.I am taking Spanish classes for my trip.
- Estoy tomando clases de piano.I am taking piano classes.
- Ahora estoy tomando clases de inglés.Now I am taking English classes.
- Este semestre estoy tomando clases de cocina.This semester I am taking cooking classes.
Example conversation
Two friends are catching up over coffee.
- Javier¿Qué haces en tu tiempo libre?What are you doing in your free time?
- ElenaEstoy tomando clases de fotografía.I am taking photography classes.
- Javier¡Qué divertido! ¿Te gusta la clase?How fun! Do you like the class?
- ElenaSí, me encanta aprender cosas nuevas.Yes, I love learning new things.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
