Spanish Phrase
Espero aprobar.
Meaning
Literally, 'I hope to pass.' It conveys a personal expectation that you will succeed in an upcoming test, exam, or any situation where a pass/fail outcome is possible. The phrase is optimistic but neutral; it does not guarantee success.
When to use
Use this sentence right before an exam, a certification test, a job interview, or any moment when you are awaiting a result you want to be positive. It works both in formal settings (e.g., speaking to a teacher) and informal chats with friends.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Esperoaprobar
Esperar + infinitivo
When 'esperar' expresses a personal hope, it can be followed directly by an infinitive (e.g., 'espero aprobar').
Esperar que + subjuntivo
If you introduce a clause with 'que', the verb after 'que' must be in the subjunctive (e.g., 'espero que apruebe').
🗨In Conversation
¿Cómo te sientes antes del examen?
How do you feel before the exam?
Espero aprobar.
I hope to pass.
✕Common Mistakes
Espero que aprobar.
After 'espero' you need the subjunctive if you use 'que'. The correct form is 'espero que apruebe'.
Espero aprobaré.
Do not mix future tense with 'espero' to express hope; use the infinitive or subjunctive instead.
Espero aprobaré el examen.
Combining 'espero' with a future form is ungrammatical. Use 'espero aprobar' or 'espero que apruebe'.
↔Alternatives
Confío en aprobar.
I trust that I will pass.
Deseo aprobar.
I wish to pass.
Tengo la esperanza de aprobar.
I have the hope of passing.
Espero que apruebe.
I hope that I pass.
Cultural Tip
In everyday Spanish, both 'espero aprobar' and 'espero que apruebe' are common. The infinitive version sounds a bit more informal and is frequently used in spoken language. In formal writing or when you want to emphasize the uncertainty of the outcome, the 'espero que + subjunctive' construction is preferred.