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Spanish Phrase

Quiero aprender a tocar la guitarra.

/ˈkjeɾo apɾenˈdeɾ a toˈkaɾ la ɡiˈtaɾa/
Meaning"I want to learn to play the guitar."
💡

Meaning

The sentence means 'I want to learn how to play the guitar.' It expresses a personal desire to acquire a new skill, specifically playing a musical instrument.

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When to use

Use this phrase when you are talking about your musical goals, introducing yourself in a music class, or explaining a new hobby you plan to start.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Quieroaprenderatocarlaguitarra

1

Querer (verb)

Querer is a regular -er verb meaning 'to want'. It is conjugated in the present indicative as quiero, quieres, quiere, etc.

2

Infinitive with a + infinitive

After querer, you use the infinitive of the action you want to do, often preceded by the preposition a.

3

Definite article with musical instruments

In Spanish, musical instruments are preceded by the definite article (la guitarra, el piano) when talking about playing them.

4

Verb tocar (to play)

Tocar is an -ar verb meaning 'to play' (an instrument) or 'to touch'. Here it is in infinitive form.

🗨In Conversation

A

¿Qué te gustaría hacer en tu tiempo libre?

What would you like to do in your free time?

Quiero aprender a tocar la guitarra.

I want to learn how to play the guitar.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Quiero aprender tocar la guitarra.

    The preposition a is required before the second infinitive.

  • Quiero aprender a tocar guitarra.

    Musical instruments need the definite article.

  • Quiero aprendar a tocar la guitarra.

    Spelling error: 'aprender' not 'aprendar'.

↔Alternatives

  • Me gustaría aprender a tocar la guitarra.

    I would like to learn to play the guitar.

  • Deseo aprender a tocar la guitarra.

    I wish to learn to play the guitar.

  • Quiero aprender a tocar la guitarra eléctrica.

    I want to learn to play the electric guitar.

es

Cultural Tip

In many Spanish‑speaking countries, learning an instrument is often linked to family gatherings and festivals. When you mention you want to learn guitar, people may ask if you prefer "la guitarra clásica" (classical) or "la guitarra española" (flamenco style). Using the definite article (la) is essential; omitting it sounds unnatural.