ajustar
“ajustar” means “to adjust” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to adjust
Also: to fit, to tighten
📝 In Action
Tengo que ajustar el cinturón porque me queda grande.
A2I have to adjust the belt because it's too big for me.
El mecánico ajustó los frenos de la bicicleta.
B1The mechanic adjusted the bicycle brakes.
Las piezas no ajustan bien en esta caja.
B1The pieces don't fit well in this box.
to adapt/conform
Also: to settle
📝 In Action
Debemos ajustar nuestro plan a las nuevas leyes.
B2We must adapt our plan to the new laws.
Ella se ajustó rápidamente a su nueva vida en España.
B2She adapted quickly to her new life in Spain.
Mañana vamos a ajustar las facturas pendientes.
C1Tomorrow we are going to settle the pending invoices.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ajustar
Question 1 of 3
If your pants are falling down, what should you do with your belt?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'ad-' (to) and 'iuxtare' (to bring near/beside). Essentially, it means to bring things close together so they line up perfectly.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'ajustar' always about making things tighter?
Not necessarily! It simply means to make something 'right' or 'fitting.' You can adjust a screw to be looser or tighter, or adjust a schedule by moving meetings around.
Can I use 'ajustar' for computer settings?
Yes! You'll often see 'Ajustes' in the menu of your phone or computer, which means 'Settings' or 'Adjustments.'
What is the difference between 'ajustado' and 'apretado'?
'Ajustado' sounds more precise and tailored (like a well-fitted suit), whereas 'apretado' often implies something is 'too tight' and perhaps uncomfortable.