What is the most precise way to say "He is writing" in Spanish? A. Él escribe. B. Él está hablando. C. Él está escribiendo. D. Él habla.

Analyzing the Options

1. Understanding "He is writing": The phrase describes an ongoing action in the present tense.
2. Understanding Spanish Present Progressive: In Spanish, "He is writing" translates to the present progressive tense, which is formed using "está" (he is) followed by the gerund form of the verb (escribiendo).

Evaluating Each Option

1. Option A: Él escribe.

   • Translation: "He writes."
   • Tense: Present simple, indicating a habitual action, not an ongoing one.
   • Conclusion: Incorrect.

2. Option B: Él está hablando.

   • Translation: "He is speaking."
   • Tense: Present progressive, but it describes a different action (speaking).
   • Conclusion: Incorrect.

3. Option C: Él está escribiendo.

   • Translation: "He is writing."
   • Tense: Present progressive, correctly indicating the ongoing action of writing.
   • Conclusion: Correct.

4. Option D: Él habla.

   • Translation: "He speaks."
   • Tense: Present simple, indicating a general action, not current.
   • Conclusion: Incorrect.

Final Answer

The most precise way to say "He is writing" in Spanish is C. Él está escribiendo.