Estoy tomando
/estoi tomando/from spelling rules
Estoy tomando is the Spanish way to say "I am taking".
This phrase is used to describe the act of consuming a drink or medicine in the present moment. While tomar can mean "to take" in a general sense, when used with food or drink, it specifically implies consuming or sipping.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the first-person singular present indicative of estar (I am) and the gerund of tomar (taking).
How does it change in a sentence?
To change the subject to "you" (informal), you must change the auxiliary verb to Estás tomando.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use estoy tomando to mean "I am taking a person" (such as a child to the park). In Spanish, tomar is not used for physically transporting people. You should use llevar instead.
Did you know?
- In Spanish, if someone is tomando el pelo, they are not taking hair but are instead pulling your leg or teasing you.
- While you use tomar for medicine in English, if you say you are tomando a un niño in Spanish, it sounds like you are consuming the child.
- In certain Latin American regions, tomar is frequently used as a euphemism for 'to drink alcohol', so saying Estoy tomando can imply you are currently intoxicated or out partying.
Examples in context
- Estoy tomando fotos del puente.I am taking pictures of the bridge.This sentence shows Estoy tomando used in the context of photography.Tatoeba #1683691 by marcelostockle, translation #1666076 by Amastan
- Estoy tomando un curso de danza.I am taking a dance class.This sentence shows Estoy tomando used in the context of a class.Tatoeba #1689674 by marcelostockle, translation #5260332 by kanbutsu
- Estoy tomando un descanso en mi auto.I am taking a rest in my car.This sentence shows Estoy tomando used in the context of a rest.Tatoeba #1684589 by marcelostockle, translation #1665552 by Amastan
- Estoy tomando un curso de español.I am taking a Spanish course.
- Estoy tomando medicamentos para el resfriado.I am taking medication for the cold.
- Estoy realizando un proyecto importante.I am taking on an important project.
- Estoy realizando un examen.I am taking an exam.
- Estoy tomando clases de baile.I am taking dance classes.
- Estoy tomando un descanso.I am taking a break.
- Estoy haciendo un curso en línea.I am taking an online course.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Alejandro calls Elena while she is having a beverage at a cafe.
- ElenaHola, Alejandro. ¿Qué haces?Hello, Alejandro. What are you doing?
- AlejandroNada especial, ¿y tú?Nothing special, and you?
- ElenaEstoy tomando un café con una amiga.I am taking (having) a coffee with a friend.
- AlejandroQué bien, disfruta tu café.That's nice, enjoy your coffee.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
