5 Ways To Say Going To In Spanish

Mastering the nuances of expressing future plans and intentions in Spanish can be a game-changer for language learners. While "going to" is a staple in English, Spanish offers several alternatives that can add variety and authenticity to your communication.

Understanding the Concept of "Going To" in Spanish

In English, "going to" is used to express future plans, intentions, or predictions. However, Spanish has different verb conjugations and phrases to convey these ideas. Let's explore five ways to say "going to" in Spanish, along with their usage and examples.

1. Ir a + Infinitive Verb

One of the most common ways to express future plans in Spanish is by using the verb "ir" (to go) in the present tense, followed by the preposition "a" and an infinitive verb.

Example: "Voy a estudiar para el examen" (I'm going to study for the exam)
Example: "Vamos a ir al parque mañana" (We're going to the park tomorrow)

This construction is often used to describe plans or intentions that are already decided or scheduled.

2. Tener Pensado + Infinitive Verb

Another way to express future plans is by using the verb "tener" (to have) in the present tense, followed by the past participle "pensado" and an infinitive verb.

Example: "Tengo pensado viajar a Europa el próximo año" (I'm planning to travel to Europe next year)
Example: "Tienen pensado mudarse a una nueva casa" (They're planning to move to a new house)

This construction is often used to describe plans or intentions that are still in the planning stages.

3. Estoy Por + Infinitive Verb

This construction is used to express plans or intentions that are about to happen or are imminent.

Example: "Estoy por empezar un nuevo proyecto" (I'm about to start a new project)
Example: "Estoy por salir de la oficina" (I'm about to leave the office)

This construction is often used to describe plans or intentions that are urgent or time-sensitive.

4. Voy a + Verb in the Present Tense

This construction is used to express plans or intentions that are already decided or scheduled.

Example: "Voy a ver una película esta noche" (I'm going to watch a movie tonight)
Example: "Voy a llamar a mi amigo mañana" (I'm going to call my friend tomorrow)

This construction is often used to describe plans or intentions that are already confirmed.

5. Pensar + Infinitive Verb

This construction is used to express plans or intentions that are still in the planning stages.

Example: "Pienso viajar a Sudamérica el próximo año" (I'm thinking of traveling to South America next year)
Example: "Pienso comprar un coche nuevo pronto" (I'm thinking of buying a new car soon)

This construction is often used to describe plans or intentions that are still uncertain or tentative.

Conclusion

Mastering the different ways to say "going to" in Spanish can help you communicate more effectively and authentically. By understanding the nuances of each construction, you can express your plans and intentions with confidence and precision.

We invite you to share your own experiences and tips for learning Spanish in the comments section below. ¡Hasta luego!

What is the most common way to say "going to" in Spanish?

The most common way to say "going to" in Spanish is by using the verb "ir" (to go) in the present tense, followed by the preposition "a" and an infinitive verb.

What is the difference between "ir a + infinitive verb" and "tener pensado + infinitive verb"?

"Ir a + infinitive verb" is used to describe plans or intentions that are already decided or scheduled, while "tener pensado + infinitive verb" is used to describe plans or intentions that are still in the planning stages.

How do I express plans or intentions that are about to happen or are imminent in Spanish?

You can express plans or intentions that are about to happen or are imminent in Spanish by using the construction "estoy por + infinitive verb".