Spanish Phrase
Estoy haciendo la lista de la compra.
Meaning
Literally, 'I am making the shopping list.' It indicates that the speaker is in the process of writing down the items they need to buy, not that the list is already finished.
When to use
Use this sentence when you are currently preparing a list of groceries, either at home, on your phone, or while chatting with a family member about what you need to buy.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Estoyhaciendolalistadelacompra
Estar + gerundio
The construction 'estar' + gerund expresses an action that is happening right now. 'Estoy' is the first‑person singular present of 'estar'.
Gerundio de 'hacer'
The gerund of 'hacer' is 'haciendo'. It conveys the ongoing nature of the activity.
La lista de la compra
A set phrase meaning 'shopping list'. In many Latin‑American countries you’ll also hear 'lista de compras'.
🗨In Conversation
¿Qué estás haciendo?
What are you doing?
Estoy haciendo la lista de la compra.
I’m making the shopping list.
✕Common Mistakes
Estoy hacer la lista de la compra.
After 'estar' you must use the gerund, not the infinitive.
Hago la lista de la compra.
This uses the simple present, which sounds like a habit rather than an action happening right now.
Estoy haciendo la lista de la compras.
The noun 'compra' is singular in the set phrase; adding an 's' is incorrect.
↔Alternatives
Estoy preparando la lista de la compra.
I’m preparing the shopping list.
Ya estoy con la lista de la compra.
I already have the shopping list ready.
Voy a hacer la lista de la compra.
I’m going to make the shopping list.
Cultural Tip
In Spain, 'lista de la compra' is the standard term for a grocery list, while many Latin‑American countries prefer 'lista de compras'. Making a list before heading to the market is a common habit that helps avoid forgetting items and can be a quick topic of small‑talk among family members.