What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of estoy (I am), intentando (trying), aprender (to learn) and español (Spanish).
Which one should you use?
You can also say estoy tratando de aprender español, as the verb tratar de is a common synonym for intentar that can be used interchangeably. While estoy intentando aprender español focuses on the ongoing effort, you can also use the simple present intento aprender español to express the same idea, which often implies a more general habit or state.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The expression Estoy metiéndole al español is commonly used in Mexico and parts of Central America.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase estoy intentando aprender español uses the present continuous construction estoy + gerund to express an ongoing action happening around the current time.
Did you know?
- The word español is theorized by some to have a connection to the Hebrew word for 'hyrax', a small mammal. This stems from a possible connection between the name 'Hispania' and the Punic term for the 'coast of hyraxes'.
Examples in context
- Estoy intentando aprender español en la escuela.I am trying to learn Spanish at school.
- No hablo bien todavía, estoy intentando aprender español.I don't speak well yet, I am trying to learn Spanish.
- Por eso uso una aplicación, estoy intentando aprender español.That's why I use an app, I am trying to learn Spanish.
Example conversation
Elena and Mateo are chatting at a cafe.
- Elena¿Entiendes lo que dice el camarero?Do you understand what the waiter is saying?
- MateoNo mucho, pero estoy intentando aprender español.Not much, but I am trying to learn Spanish.
- Elena¡Qué bien! Es un idioma muy bonito.That's great! It is a very beautiful language.
- MateoGracias, Elena. Es un poco difícil.Thanks, Elena. It is a little difficult.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries aprender, español, CC BY-SA 4.0.
