A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I'm nervous" in Spanish
Express your nerves in Spanish with 'Estoy nervioso/a' for common situations like public speaking or meeting new people.
Estoy nervioso/a
es-TOY ner-vee-OH-soh / -sahneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this when you feel anxious or apprehensive about something. It's perfect for situations like before a job interview, a first date, or giving a presentation.
Alternatives
- Tengo nerviosMore common in some regions, literally 'I have nerves'.
- Me pongo nervioso/aImplies the nervousness is a reaction to a specific event.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'ser' and 'estar'
Use 'estar' for temporary feelings like nervousness, not 'ser'.
Forgetting gender agreement
Add '-a' to 'nervioso' if you are female.
A small cultural note
In many Latin American countries, expressing nervousness is quite common and not seen as a sign of weakness.
Frequently asked
How to say I am nervous in Spanish?
The most common way is 'Estoy nervioso' if you are male, or 'Estoy nerviosa' if you are female. This phrase works in most situations.
When do I use 'nervioso' vs 'nerviosa'?
You use 'nervioso' if you are male and 'nerviosa' if you are female. Spanish adjectives must agree in gender with the person feeling the emotion.
Is 'Tengo nervios' same as 'Estoy nervioso'?
'Tengo nervios' is a valid alternative, literally meaning 'I have nerves,' and is used in some regions. 'Estoy nervioso/a' is generally more widely understood and used.
