How to Say To Look in Spanish | MostUsedWords.com
As of 2026, the verb "to look" in Spanish is commonly translated as mirar. This article delves into various ways to express looking in Spanish, including regional nuances, different tenses, and moods. Let's explore how to use this essential verb effectively.


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How to Say "To Look" in Spanish
The verb mirar (IPA: /miˈɾaɾ/) is the primary way to express looking or observing something. It's widely used across Spanish-speaking countries and can convey a range of meanings depending on context, such as watching, staring, or glancing.
Regional Variations
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Browse all 4 volumes →In some regions, particularly in Latin America, you might hear ver (IPA: /beɾ/), which means to see. While it can sometimes be used interchangeably with "mirar," it's more commonly associated with the act of seeing rather than looking intently.
Different Tenses and Moods
Mirar is conjugated in various tenses and moods, such as:
- Presente: Yo miro (I look)
- Pretérito Perfecto: He mirado (I have looked)
- Futuro Simple: Miraré (I will look)
Common Phrases Using "Mirar"
Here are some common phrases that use the verb "mirar":
- Echar un vistazo: To take a quick glance.
- Mirar de reojo: To look sideways or sneakily.
- No mirar por encima del hombro: Don't look back (used metaphorically).
Sample Sentences with Context
To help you understand how to use "mirar" in different contexts, here are some sample sentences:
- ¿Puedes mirar el paisaje desde la ventana?
(Can you look at the landscape from the window?)
- Miramos las estrellas todas las noches.
(We watch the stars every night.)
- No puedo dejar de mirar sus hermosos ojos.
(I can't stop looking at her beautiful eyes.)
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