Basic meanings
Both coger and tomar mean to take in English, but their usage varies depending on the region and context. Coger is common in Spain for everyday meanings like taking an object or a mode of transport, while tomar is widely used in Latin America and often sounds more formal or polite.
Regional differences
In Spain, coger is the usual verb for grabbing or taking something, for example, coger el autobús (to take the bus). However, in many Latin American countries, coger can have vulgar connotations, so tomar is preferred to avoid misunderstandings, especially in Mexico, Argentina, and parts of Central America.
Usage with transportation
Both verbs can describe taking transportation: coger un taxi (Spain) and tomar un taxi (Latin America). Using tomar is universally safe and polite when referring to public transit or rides.
Usage with food and drink
Tomar is commonly used when referring to consuming food or drink, such as tomar café (to have coffee). Coger is rarely used in this context and may sound odd or inappropriate.
Other contexts
Coger can also mean to catch or grab something physically, for example, coger la pelota (to catch the ball). Tomar extends to more abstract uses like tomar una decisión (to make a decision) or tomar una oportunidad (to take an opportunity).
Summary
| Context | Spain | Latin America |
|---|---|---|
| Physical taking | Coger | Tomar |
| Transportation | Coger/Tomar | Tomar |
| Food and drink | Tomar | Tomar |
| Abstract actions | Tomar | Tomar |
Using tomar is often safer across Spanish-speaking regions, especially to avoid unintended vulgarity. In Spain, coger remains very common and neutral in everyday speech.
