Confusing 'Significar' and 'Ser'

To keep the hard 'k' sound of the 'c' before the soft 'e' in the preterite 'yo' form and the entire present subjunctive, the 'c' changes to 'qu' (e.g., 'yo signifiqué,' 'que yo signifique').

The -car Spelling Change

If you don't know a word, just point and ask: '¿Qué significa esto?' (What does this mean?)

Quick Question

Extremely common. Used daily to ask or state what words, symbols, or actions represent.

In this usage, 'significar' acts like 'to cause' or 'to result in.' The subject is the cause (the event) and the direct object is the consequence (the result).

Expressing Consequence

Use this meaning when discussing the weight or relevance of an action, especially when it has serious implications (positive or negative).

Focus on Weight

Commonly used in serious or formal contexts to discuss the importance, consequence, or impact of an action or event.

Learn the Spanish verb 'significar,' covering its primary meanings ('to mean' or 'to signify') and its usage to express importance or consequence ('to matter'). Includes full conjugation and usage tips.

significar

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

conditional

present

preterite

imperfect

future

imperative

affirmative

negative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations