aprobar
“aprobar” means “to pass” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to pass
Also: to clear
📝 In Action
¡Aprobé el examen de conducir!
A1I passed my driving test!
Tienes que estudiar mucho para aprobar matemáticas.
A2You have to study a lot to pass math.
Si no apruebas el curso, tendrás que repetirlo.
B1If you don't pass the course, you will have to repeat it.
to approve
Also: to endorse
📝 In Action
El gobierno aprobó la nueva ley de vivienda.
B2The government approved the new housing law.
Mi madre no aprueba mi nuevo tatuaje.
B2My mother doesn't approve of my new tattoo.
El director tiene que aprobar el presupuesto.
C1The director has to approve the budget.
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Indicative
Present
Preterite
Imperfect
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: aprobar
Question 1 of 3
How do you say 'I pass the exam' in Spanish?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'approbare,' which means 'to find good.' It combines 'ad' (towards) and 'probus' (good/honest).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'pasar' and 'aprobar'?
'Pasar' is more informal and general, like 'passing through' or 'passing a test.' 'Aprobar' is the formal, specific word used by teachers and in official documents.
Is 'aprobar' always irregular?
It only changes its stem (o to ue) in the present tense and the commands. Other tenses like the future or the past (imperfect) are perfectly regular.
Can I use 'aprobar' for a person?
Generally, no. You approve of an action, a law, or a grade. To say you like or accept a person, you would use 'caer bien' or 'aceptar'.