Easiest way to say or express approximately

Question

Hi,

What are some ways to say or express approximately/about/around in Spanish? I've seen aproximadamente, alrededor de, más o menos. Is there a word or phrase that expresses this that is used more frequently than others???

I got up around 7am this morning

I will be there in about/around 5 or 10 minutes

It's about 5 hours from here

Thanks

Answer 1

It depends on the context. I'd translate your 3 sentences as follows:

1. Me levanté cerca de (como a) las 7 esta mañana
2. Estaré allí como en 5 minutos/en alrededor de 5 minutos/aproximadamente en 5 minutos
3. Queda aproximadamente a cinco horas de aquí

The shorter the word, the more popular. But there are instances in which aproximadamente is more appropriate.

I agree, I think aproximadamente is a real all rounder. - annierats, Sep 26, 2012

U got my vote, Annie - francobollo, Sep 26, 2012

Thanks to everyone who has provided answers. It's appreciated. - bfpsu, Sep 26, 2012

Answer 2

Está a unas cinco horas, más o menos. // se tarda cinco horas en llegar.

Tarda aproximadamente cinco minutos,y estaré allí.

Me levanté sobre las siete.

To get the ball rolling, you're sure to get more answers. - annierats, Sep 26, 2012