actualizar
“actualizar” means “to update” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to update
Also: to refresh
📝 In Action
Necesito actualizar mi teléfono para que funcione mejor.
A2I need to update my phone so it works better.
El sistema se está actualizando automáticamente.
B1The system is updating automatically.
Por favor, actualiza la página para ver los cambios.
A2Please refresh the page to see the changes.
to modernize
Also: to upgrade
📝 In Action
Es importante actualizar tus conocimientos profesionales.
B1It is important to keep your professional knowledge up to date.
El gobierno quiere actualizar la ley de educación.
B2The government wants to modernize the education law.
Los médicos tienen que actualizarse constantemente.
B2Doctors have to constantly update their skills.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: actualizar
Question 1 of 3
Which of the following is the correct 'yo' form for 'I updated' (past)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'actualis' (related to doing or acting). It evolved to mean bringing something into the 'here and now'.
First recorded: 19th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'actualizar' mean 'actually'?
No! 'Actually' is translated as 'de hecho' or 'en realidad'. 'Actualizar' always means bringing something up to date.
When do I use 'actualizar' vs 'renovar'?
Use 'actualizar' for data, software, or laws. Use 'renovar' for physical things like a passport, a driver's license, or home furniture.
Why does the 'z' change to 'c'?
In Spanish spelling, 'z' is almost never written before 'e' or 'i'. It automatically switches to 'c' to maintain the same pronunciation.