Llevar vs. Llevarse: The Difference and 3 Practice Exercises

Spanish verbs can sometimes feel like a puzzle, especially when two forms look so similar yet carry different meanings. Llevar and Llevarse are a perfect example of this – both stem from the same root, but their uses diverge in fascinating ways.

In this article, we’ll break down when to use each one, explore their meanings with examples, and provide exercises to help learners master them. Let’s unravel the mystery and boost your Spanish skills!

When to Use LLEVAR❓

Llevar is a versatile verb that generally implies carrying, taking, or wearing something. It’s used in everyday situations where someone moves an object or has it with them. Here are its main meanings with examples to clarify:

1. To carry or take something somewhere:

• Llevo los libros a la escuela. (I carry the books to school)
• Ella lleva el pastel a la fiesta. (She takes the cake to the party)

2. To wear something (clothes or accessories):

• Hoy llevo una chaqueta azul. (Today I’m wearing a blue jacket)
• Él lleva gafas de sol. (He’s wearing sunglasses.)

3. To lead or guide (figurative or literal):

• Este camino lleva al pueblo. (This road leads to the village)
• El profesor lleva a los estudiantes al museo. (The teacher takes the students to the museum)

When to Use LLEVARSE❓

Llevarse is the reflexive form of llevar and shifts the focus to actions involving oneself or relationships. It often implies taking something away, how people get along, or even making a purchase in a casual context. Here are its key meanings with examples:

1. To take something away (often with a sense of removal)

• Me llevé el libro de la biblioteca. (I took the book from the library)
• Se llevó mi reloj sin preguntar. (He took my watch without asking)
• El camarero se llevó los platos vacíos. (The waiter took away the empty plates)

2. To get along with someone (well or badly)

• Me llevo bien con mi hermano. (I get along well with my brother)
• Ellos se llevan mal con sus vecinos. (They don’t get along with their neighbors)

3. To have an impression or memory (colloquial)

• Se llevó una sorpresa al verme. (She got a surprise when she saw me)
• Me llevé una buena impresión de la ciudad. (I took away a good impression of the city)

4. To buy or take something (in a shopping context, informal)

• Me llevo esta camisa, está en oferta. (I’ll take this shirt, it’s on sale)
• Se llevó dos pares de zapatos del mercado. (He bought/took two pairs of shoes from the market)

Llevar and Llevarse: Conjugation📌

Presente de Indicativo:

Pretérito Perfecto Simple:

Exercise 1: Llevar vs. Llevarse✅

Let’s test your understanding! Choose between llevar or llevarse to complete these sentences based on the context.

Exercise 2: Llevar vs. Llevarse✅

Ready for more practice? Select llevar or llevarse for these new sentences to sharpen your skills.

Exercise 3: Write Answer✅

Now it’s time to apply what you’ve learned! Type the correct form (llevar or llevarse) in the blank for each sentence.