To express "to be looking forward" to doing something we can use different constructions in Spanish, but the most common ones are:
This is used to express either what you "feel like doing" or that you "are looking forward to something". Remember not to omit the "de".
Let's see some examples:
The context will make it clear which meaning applies.
The same can be expressed with another construction:
Estar deseando conveys a higher level of "wish"; therefore, it is normally translated as "to be looking forward to doing something" or "to not able to wait to do something", more than simply "to feel like doing something."
Here are some examples:
To convey this meaning you really need to use the verb desear as it doesn't work the same way with a synonym like querer. For example:
"Estoy queriendo ver a mi marido." (incorrect)
"Estoy deseando ver a mi marido." (correct)
(I am looking forward to seeing my husband.)
Remember:
Tener ganas de + infinitive
Estar deseando + infinitive
To feel like [doing something] / To be looking forward to [doing something]
Literal translations from English to Spanish don't work. In this context, do not use this type of construction in the English way:
"Estoy mirando a..." (I am looking forward to...)
"No puedo esperar a..." (I can't wait to...)
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