One of the most common words you’ll need to know in Spanish is “sitting.” After all, you’re going to be doing a lot of it! Whether you’re eating at a restaurant, watching a movie, or just relaxing at home, you’ll need to know how to say “sitting” in Spanish. Fortunately, it’s a very easy word to learn. In this article, we’ll show you how to say “sitting” in Spanish and provide some examples of how to use it in a sentence.
The Spanish word for “sitting” is “sentado.” It is a regular verb, which means that it follows the same conjugation pattern as other regular verbs in Spanish. To conjugate “sentado,” simply add the appropriate ending to the verb stem “sent.” For example, the present tense conjugation of “sentado” is “estoy sentado” (I am sitting), the preterite tense conjugation is “estuve sentado” (I was sitting), and the future tense conjugation is “estaré sentado” (I will be sitting). Now that you know how to conjugate “sentado,” let’s take a look at some examples of how to use it in a sentence:
Estoy sentado en la silla. (I am sitting in the chair.)
Estuve sentado en el sofá toda la tarde. (I was sitting on the couch all afternoon.)
Estaré sentado en el parque mañana por la mañana. (I will be sitting in the park tomorrow morning.)
As you can see, “sentado” is a very versatile word that can be used in a variety of situations. So next time you’re sitting down, remember to use the Spanish word “sentado”!
Direct Translation: Sentarse
1. Common Usage
The Spanish verb “sentarse” primarily means “to sit down,” describing the action of assuming a seated position. It is a highly versatile verb, commonly employed in everyday conversations and formal settings alike. Whether discussing a casual gathering with friends or delivering a presentation, “sentarse” is the appropriate term to convey the act of sitting.
| Example |
Translation |
| Siéntate aquí, por favor. |
Please sit here. |
| Me siento cansado, necesito descansar. |
I feel tired, I need to sit down. |
Informal and Colloquial Expressions
In informal settings or when speaking colloquially, Spanish speakers use a variety of slang terms and expressions to convey the idea of sitting.
Literally translating to “I am planted,” this phrase describes a person who has been sitting for an extended period of time, usually in a relaxed or comfortable manner. It can also imply a sense of rootedness or a reluctance to move.
This expression is similar to “estoy plantado” but has a more temporary connotation. It means “to be stationed” or “to be situated” and implies a specific location or position where someone is sitting. For example, “Estoy puesto en el sofá” translates to “I am seated on the couch.”
Literally meaning “to be sitting like a parrot,” this amusing phrase is used to describe someone who is sitting with their legs crossed. In some cultures, this posture is associated with gossiping or eavesdropping, hence the reference to a parrot.
This expression is a bit more figurative and translates to “to be like cheese.” It is used to describe someone who is sitting in a relaxed or slouched position, with their legs stretched out or their back hunched. It implies a sense of comfort or laziness.
| Expression |
Meaning |
| Estoy plantado |
I am planted |
| Estar puesto |
I am stationed |
| Estar sentado de cotorro |
I am sitting like a parrot |
| Estar hecho un queso |
To be like cheese |
Using the Verb "Estar"
Estar is the Spanish verb “to be” that is used for temporary states, locations, or conditions. It is the equivalent of the English verb “to be” when it is used in the present progressive tense or to indicate a state of being.
Conjugation of Estar
The conjugation of estar in the present tense is as follows:
|
Singular |
Plural |
| Yo (I) |
estoy |
estamos |
| Tú (you) |
estás |
estáis |
| Él/Ella/Usted (he/she/you) |
está |
están |
Using Estar for “Sitting”
To say “sitting” in Spanish using estar, you can use the following expression:
Estoy sentado/sentada
The form “sentado” is used for masculine nouns or pronouns, while “sentada” is used for feminine nouns or pronouns.
For example:
- Estoy sentado en la silla. (I am sitting in the chair.)
- Ella está sentada en el sofá. (She is sitting on the couch.)
- Estamos sentados en el suelo. (We are sitting on the floor.)
Regional Variations
Argentina and Uruguay
In Argentina and Uruguay, the most common way to say “sitting” is “sentado.” For example:
Estoy sentado en la silla. (I am sitting on the chair.)
Another option is “sentado/a” when referring to a specific person, as in:
Él está sentado en el sofá. (He is sitting on the couch.)
Central America
In Central America, the most common way to say “sitting” is “sentado/a.” For instance:
Estamos sentados en la playa. (We are sitting on the beach.)
Another option is “sentarse,” which means “to sit down” or “to be sitting.” For example:
¡Siéntate aquí! (Sit down here!)
Mexico
In Mexico, the most common way to say “sitting” is “sentado/a,” similar to Central America and Uruguay. For example:
Estoy sentado en mi escritorio. (I am sitting at my desk.)
However, in some regions of Mexico, “estar sentado/a” is also commonly used, as in:
Ella está sentada en el jardín. (She is sitting in the garden.)
Other Regions
In other Spanish-speaking regions, such as Spain and Colombia, “estar sentado/a” is the most prevalent way to say “sitting.” However, “sentado/a” can still be used in these areas as well.
Regional Variations of “Sitting” in Spanish
| Country/Region |
Common Expression |
| Argentina and Uruguay |
sentado; sentado/a |
| Central America |
sentado/a; sentarse |
| Mexico |
sentado/a; estar sentado/a |
| Spain and Colombia |
estar sentado/a |
Formal and Polite Terms
Sentarse
The verb “sentarse” means “to sit down” and is the most formal and polite way to say “sitting” in Spanish. It is used in situations where you want to show respect to the person you are speaking to, such as in a business meeting or when speaking to an elder. For example, you might say “Me siento” to a doctor or professor to ask them to sit down.
Tomar asiento
The phrase “tomar asiento” also means “to sit down” and is slightly less formal than “sentarse”. It can be used in a variety of situations, such as when asking someone to sit down at a restaurant or in a meeting. For example, you might say “Tome asiento, por favor” to a guest in your home.
Ocupar un sitio
The phrase “ocupar un sitio” means “to take a seat” and is the least formal way to say “sitting” in Spanish. It is often used in informal situations, such as when asking someone to sit down in a crowded bus or train. For example, you might say “Ocupa un sitio aquí” to a friend.
Estar sentado
The phrase “estar sentado” means “to be sitting” and is used to describe the state of being seated. It is often used in conjunction with other verbs, such as “estar comiendo” (to be eating) or “estar hablando” (to be talking). For example, you might say “Estoy sentado en el sofá” to describe yourself as being seated on the couch.
Descansar
The verb “descansar” means “to rest” and can also be used to mean “to sit down”. It is often used in a casual or informal context, such as when you are telling someone that you are going to sit down to take a break. For example, you might say “Voy a descansar un rato” to your friend to tell them that you are going to sit down for a while to rest.
Prepositional Phrases with “Sentarse”
The verb “sentarse” (to sit down) can be used with several prepositional phrases to express different nuances of the action. Here are a few examples:
| Prepositional Phrase |
Meaning |
| sentarse a |
to sit down and do something |
| sentarse con |
to sit down with someone |
| sentarse de |
to sit down on something |
| sentarse en |
to sit down in something |
| sentarse sobre |
to sit down on something |
Here are some additional examples of how these prepositional phrases can be used in sentences:
- Me senté a la mesa para comer. (I sat down at the table to eat.)
- Me senté con mi amigo para hablar. (I sat down with my friend to talk.)
- Me senté de la silla para descansar. (I sat down on the chair to rest.)
- Me senté en el sofá para leer. (I sat down on the couch to read.)
- Me senté sobre la cama para pensar. (I sat down on the bed to think.)
Figurative Meanings of “Sentarse”
The verb “sentarse” does not only mean “sit” or “take a seat” in Spanish. It can also be used figuratively to express:
- Settle down: “Sentarse” can imply finding a place to rest or establish a home.
- Settle a dispute: “Sentarse a negociar” means to sit down and negotiate a resolution to a conflict.
- Attend a meeting: “Sentarse a una reunión” refers to attending or participating in a meeting.
- Be present: “Sentarse en una sala de espera” implies being present and waiting in a waiting room.
- Take up residence: “Sentarse en una casa” means to settle down and live in a house.
- Take action: “Sentarse a trabajar” signifies starting or engaging in work.
- Become serious: “Sentarse a hablar” suggests becoming more serious or focused in a conversation.
Pronunciation
The Spanish word for “sitting” is “sentado” (masculine) or “sentada” (feminine). The pronunciation of “sentado” is “sen-TAH-doe,” while the pronunciation of “sentada” is “sen-TAH-dah.” The accent is on the second syllable of both words.
Usage
The word “sentado” is used to describe someone who is sitting in a chair or on the ground. The word “sentada” is used to describe a sitting position, such as when someone is sitting at a table or in a car.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Using the wrong gender
Be sure to use the correct gender of the word “sentado” or “sentada” depending on the gender of the person you are describing.
2. Confusing “sentar” with “sentado”
“Sentar” is a verb that means “to sit,” while “sentado” is an adjective that means “sitting.” Do not confuse the two words.
3. Using “estar sentado” instead of “sentarse”
“Estar sentado” means “to be sitting,” while “sentarse” means “to sit down.” Use the correct verb form depending on the tense you are using.
4. Using “sentarse” with a preposition
The verb “sentarse” does not take a preposition. Do not use “a” or “en” before “sentarse.”
5. Using “sentado” with a preposition
The adjective “sentado” can be used with a preposition, such as “en” or “sobre.” However, do not use “a” before “sentado.”
6. Confusing “sentado” with “acostado”
“Sentado” means “sitting,” while “acostado” means “lying down.” Do not confuse the two words.
7. Using “sentado” to describe a position that is not sitting
Do not use “sentado” to describe a position that is not sitting, such as standing or kneeling.
8. Using “sentado” in the wrong context
The word “sentado” is used to describe a physical position. Do not use it to describe a metaphorical position, such as “sitting on the fence” or “sitting in judgment.”
Examples
Here are some examples of how to use the words “sentado” and “sentada” in Spanish:
| Example |
Translation |
| El hombre está sentado en la silla. |
The man is sitting in the chair. |
| La mujer está sentada a la mesa. |
The woman is sitting at the table. |
| El niño se sentó en el suelo. |
The boy sat down on the ground. |
| La niña está sentada en el coche. |
The girl is sitting in the car. |
Tips for Improving Pronunciation
Improving your Spanish pronunciation can help you communicate more effectively and confidently. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Listen closely to native speakers.
Pay attention to how the locals speak and try to imitate their pronunciation. You can find audio recordings of native speakers online or through language-learning apps.
2. Practice speaking aloud.
The more you practice speaking Spanish, the more your pronunciation will improve. Find opportunities to speak with native speakers or language partners.
3. Use a mirror to check your mouth movements.
When you speak, pay attention to how your mouth moves. Make sure you are forming the sounds correctly.
4. Slow down.
When you first start learning Spanish, it is helpful to slow down your speech. This will give you time to focus on your pronunciation.
5. Break down words into syllables.
If you are having trouble pronouncing a word, break it down into syllables and practice saying each syllable separately.
6. Use a dictionary or online resources to check pronunciation.
If you are unsure about how to pronounce a word, use a dictionary or online resource to check. There are also many websites that offer pronunciation guides.
7. Repeat after native speakers.
One of the best ways to improve your pronunciation is to repeat after native speakers. You can find audio recordings of native speakers online or through language-learning apps.
8. Focus on the stress.
Spanish words have a stressed syllable. Make sure you are placing the stress on the correct syllable.
9. Use online pronunciation games.
There are many online games that can help you practice your Spanish pronunciation. These games can be a fun and interactive way to learn.
| Game |
Description |
| SpanishDict Pronunciation Game |
This game tests your ability to pronounce Spanish words. |
| Forvo Pronunciation Dictionary |
This website provides pronunciation recordings of Spanish words. |
| Duolingo Pronunciation Practice |
This app offers pronunciation practice exercises. |
Cultural Context of Sitting
Sitting is a fundamental human activity that takes on various cultural meanings and implications. Understanding these cultural contexts can enhance communication and foster respectful interactions.
10. Respect for Elders and Authority Figures
In many cultures, sitting etiquette revolves around respecting elders and authority figures. The elderly, senior family members, and individuals of higher social or professional status are typically given the most comfortable and elevated seating positions.
| Culture |
Etiquette |
| East Asia |
Young people stand or sit on the floor while elders sit in chairs. |
| South Asia |
It is considered disrespectful to sit higher than someone older or more senior. |
| Middle East |
Guests are often given the most comfortable seating, with the host sitting more modestly. |
How To Say Sitting In Spanish
The Spanish word for “sitting” is “sentado”. It is a regular verb, and its conjugation depends on the subject pronoun. For example:
- Yo estoy sentado (I am sitting)
- Tú estás sentado (You are sitting)
- Él/Ella está sentado (He/She is sitting)
- Nosotros estamos sentados (We are sitting)
- Vosotros estáis sentados (You all are sitting)
- Ellos/Ellas están sentados (They are sitting)
The word “sentado” can also be used as an adjective to describe someone who is sitting. For example:
El hombre está sentado en la silla. (The man is sitting on the chair.)
People Also Ask
How do you say “sitting down” in Spanish?
The Spanish phrase for “sitting down” is “sentarse”. It is a reflexive verb, which means that the subject pronoun is followed by the reflexive pronoun “se”. For example:
- Yo me siento (I am sitting down)
- Tú te sientas (You are sitting down)
- Él/Ella se sienta (He/She is sitting down)
- Nosotros nos sentamos (We are sitting down)
- Vosotros os sentáis (You all are sitting down)
- Ellos/Ellas se sientan (They are sitting down)
How do you say “sitting on” in Spanish?
The Spanish phrase for “sitting on” is “estar sentado en”. For example:
El hombre está sentado en la silla. (The man is sitting on the chair.)
How do you say “sitting at” in Spanish?
The Spanish phrase for “sitting at” is “estar sentado a”. For example:
El hombre está sentado a la mesa. (The man is sitting at the table.)
