Spanish Phrase
Estoy intentando conseguir un ascenso.
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to "I am trying to obtain a promotion." It's used to express an ongoing effort or a current professional goal. The use of the gerund "intentando" emphasizes the continuous nature of the action.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to inform someone about your professional aspirations, particularly if you are actively working towards a promotion at your job. It's suitable for conversations with colleagues, friends, or mentors about your career path.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Estoyintentandoconseguirunascenso
Estar (Estoy)
'Estoy' is the first-person singular form of the verb 'estar,' used here to form the present progressive tense, indicating an ongoing action or temporary state.
Gerundio (-ndo)
'Intentando' is the gerund of 'intentar' (to try). It combines with 'estar' to express an action that is currently happening or in progress.
Conseguir
'Conseguir' means 'to get,' 'to obtain,' or 'to achieve.' It's commonly used for acquiring things or reaching goals, often implying effort.
Un ascenso
'Un ascenso' means 'a promotion.' 'Un' is the indefinite article for masculine singular nouns, preceding 'ascenso' (promotion).
🗨In Conversation
¿Qué tal el trabajo, María?
How's work, Maria?
Bien, pero estoy intentando conseguir un ascenso.
Good, but I'm trying to get a promotion.
✕Common Mistakes
Soy intentando conseguir un ascenso.
Use 'estar' (estoy) for temporary states and ongoing actions (like 'trying'), not 'ser' (soy) which is for permanent characteristics.
Estoy intentar conseguir un ascenso.
After 'estar' in the present progressive, you must use the gerund form of the verb (ending in -ndo), not the infinitive.
Estoy intentando obtener un ascenso.
While 'obtener' is grammatically correct, 'conseguir' is generally more natural and common for 'to get' or 'to obtain' in the context of achieving a promotion or goal.
↔Alternatives
Quiero un ascenso.
I want a promotion.
Estoy buscando un ascenso.
I am looking for a promotion.
Mi objetivo es conseguir un ascenso.
My goal is to get a promotion.
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, discussing career aspirations like promotions is common in professional settings or among close friends. However, it's often done with a sense of humility and an emphasis on hard work rather than overt boasting. Networking and building strong professional relationships are often key to career advancement.