tomar notas
/tomaɾ notas/from spelling rules
The English phrase "taking notes" is translated into Spanish as tomar notas.
Tomar notas is a direct equivalent to the English phrase "taking notes".
Which one should you use?
While tomar notas is a direct equivalent to the English phrase, tomar apuntes is often more common in academic settings. Additionally, the singular form tomar nota is often used idiomatically to mean "to take notice" or "to bear in mind" something.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the continuous action of taking notes, such as in the phrase "I am taking notes", you use the gerund form tomando notas.
How do you pronounce it?
/tomaɾ notas/
Did you know?
- The word apunte in tomar apuntes shares a root with the verb apuntar, which can also mean 'to aim' a weapon or 'to point out' an object. This gives the act of note-taking a sense of 'pointing' information out for later use.
- Using the phrase tomar nota in a sarcastic tone can be a way of telling someone that their opinion has been heard but will be completely ignored.
- If you are told toma nota in a business meeting, it might not mean you should grab a pen. It often serves as a verbal confirmation that a person has understood and recorded a piece of information mentally.
Examples in context
- Odio tomar notas.I hate taking notes.Tatoeba #9440030 by ignacio, translation #9432454 by DJ_Saidez
- Me voy a sentar en la primera fila para tomar apuntes durante la conferencia.I'm going to sit in the front row to take notes during the conference.
- Recuerda registrar la información importante en tu cuaderno.Remember to record the important information in your notebook.
- ¡Espera un momento, déjame apuntar eso en mi teléfono!Wait a moment, let me write that down on my phone!
- Siempre llevo mi cuaderno para tomar notas en clase.I always carry my notebook to take notes in class.
- Recuerda anotar lo que dijo el profesor sobre el próximo examen.Remember to write down what the teacher said about the upcoming exam.
- Es importante tomar notas durante la reunión.It is important to take notes during the meeting.
Example conversation
Sofía and Mateo are at a study group in a library.
- Sofía¿Puedes ayudarme a tomar notas?Can you help me take notes?
- MateoClaro, yo voy tomando notas por ti.Sure, I will be taking notes for you.
- SofíaGracias, Mateo, eres muy amable.Thanks, Mateo, you are very kind.
- MateoDe nada, Sofía, no hay problema.You're welcome, Sofia, no problem.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
