acertar
“acertar” means “to get right” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to get right, to hit the mark
Also: to be right about, to succeed in
📝 In Action
¡Has acertado la respuesta!
A1You got the answer right!
Él siempre acierta con los regalos de Navidad.
A2He always gets it right with Christmas gifts.
El arquero acertó en el centro de la diana.
B1The archer hit the center of the target.
to manage to, to happen to
📝 In Action
No acerté a decir nada por los nervios.
B2I didn't manage to say anything because of the nerves.
Acertó a pasar por allí cuando ocurrió el accidente.
C1He happened to pass by there when the accident occurred.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: acertar
Question 1 of 3
If you win a game of darts by hitting the bullseye, you...
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin root 'certus' (sure/certain), essentially meaning 'to make certain' or 'to find the certainty'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'acertar' and 'adivinar'?
'Adivinar' is the act of guessing (like a magician or someone thinking of a number). 'Acertar' is the result of being correct. You 'adivinas' (guess) and then you 'aciertas' (get it right).
Is it a regular verb?
Almost! It is regular except for a small spelling change: the 'e' becomes 'ie' when you stress that part of the word (acierto, aciertas, etc.).
Can I use 'acertar' for hitting someone?
Generally, no. For hitting a person or an object with your hand or a tool, use 'golpear' or 'pegar'. 'Acertar' is specifically for hitting a target (like an arrow hitting a bullseye).