¡Hola! Are you interested in learning how to say “run for” in Spanish? Whether you want to participate in a race, compete for an election, or simply use this phrase in everyday conversations, this guide has got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various formal and informal ways to express the concept of “run for” in Spanish. So, let’s dive in and expand your linguistic horizons!
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Formal Ways to Say “Run For” in Spanish
When it comes to formal scenarios, such as political elections or organized races, it’s important to use the appropriate terminology. Here are some phrases you can use:
1. Postularse para (un cargo or una posición)
One of the most common ways to say “run for” in a formal context is by using the verb “postularse” along with the preposition “para” (for) and the specific position or role. For example:
Carlos se postuló para el cargo de alcalde.
(Carlos ran for the position of mayor.)
Here, “cargo” refers to the position and “alcalde” means mayor. This phrase is widely understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world in formal settings.
2. Presentarse como candidato/a a (un cargo or una posición)
Another formal way to express “run for” is to use the verb “presentarse” (to present oneself) along with the preposition “como” (as) and the noun “candidato/a” (candidate) followed by the specific position or role. For instance:
3. Participar en (un evento deportivo or una carrera)
When discussing running or participating in a race or athletic event, you can simply use the verb “participar en” (to participate in). This conveys the idea of “running for” in a formal sense. Take a look at the following example:
Lucía participará en la maratón de la ciudad.
(Lucía will run in the city marathon.)
In this instance, “maratón de la ciudad” means city marathon. This phrase is widely understood across the Spanish-speaking world.
Informal Ways to Say “Run For” in Spanish
Now let’s explore some informal ways to express the concept of “run for” in Spanish. These phrases are perfect for casual conversations among friends or when discussing simpler situations. Here are a few options:
1. Querer ser (un cargo or una posición)
The phrase “querer ser” (to want to be) followed by the specific position or role is a common way to express the idea of “running for” in an informal context. For example:
Pedro quiere ser presidente del club de fútbol.
(Pedro wants to run for the position of soccer club president.)
In this case, “presidente del club de fútbol” means soccer club president. This phrase is casual and commonly used within informal conversations.
2. Lanzarse para (un cargo or una posición)
When talking about running for a position or role informally, you can use the phrase “lanzarse para” followed by the specific position. For instance:
Jessica se lanzará para secretaria del comité estudiantil.
(Jessica will run for the position of secretary in the student committee.)
3. Competir por (un cargo or una posición)
If you want to express the idea of “running for” in a competitive sense, you can use the verb “competir” (to compete) followed by the preposition “por” (for) and the position or role in question. Take a look at this example:
Los hermanos González compiten por la presidencia.
(The González brothers are running for the presidency.)
In this case, “presidencia” means presidency. This phrase is commonly used in informal conversations when talking about competitive races.
Regional Variations
While the aforementioned phrases are understood across the Spanish-speaking world, it’s important to note that regional variations may exist. Certain countries or regions may have specific colloquial expressions or regionalisms. Here, we will briefly explore some of these variations:
Mexico
In Mexico, it’s common to use the phrase “buscar” (to seek) or “aspirar a” (to aspire to) when expressing the idea of “running for” in a formal context. For instance:
Juan buscará la gobernatura del estado.
(Juan will run for the governorship of the state.)
Argentina
In Argentina, the phrase “presentarse como candidato/a para” (to present oneself as a candidate for) is commonly used in formal situations. For example:
Martina se presentará como candidata para senadora nacional.
(Martina will run as a candidate for national senator.)
Spain
In Spain, the verb “presentarse” (to present oneself) followed by the preposition “a” (to) and the specific position or role is often used when discussing “running for” formally. Here’s an example:
Carlos se presentará a las elecciones municipales.
(Carlos will run for municipal elections.)
Tips for Usage
Now that you’re familiar with various ways to say “run for” in Spanish, let’s explore some tips to help you use these phrases effectively:
- Context is key: Choose the appropriate phrase depending on the formality of the situation. Formal settings such as political elections or organized races require more formal expressions.
- Consider your audience: When using informal phrases, be aware of the context and the level of formality expected by the people you are speaking to.
- Learn regional variations: If you plan to travel or communicate with Spanish speakers from specific regions, take the time to familiarize yourself with any regional expressions or variations.
- Practice and immerse yourself: To truly grasp the nuances of these phrases, practice using them in conversations with native Spanish speakers and immerse yourself in the language.
Remember, language learning is a journey, and embracing the various ways to express ideas allows you to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
