apuntar
“apuntar” means “to write down” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
to write down
Also: to take note
📝 In Action
Apunta mi número de teléfono.
A1Write down my phone number.
Ella apuntó la dirección en un papel.
A2She wrote the address on a piece of paper.
Debes apuntar todo lo que diga el profesor.
B1You should write down everything the teacher says.
to point, to aim
📝 In Action
No es de mala educación apuntar con el dedo.
A2It is rude to point with your finger.
El arquero apunta al centro de la diana.
B1The archer aims at the center of the target.
La brújula apunta hacia el norte.
A2The compass points toward the north.
to sign up, to enroll
Also: to be up for
📝 In Action
Me voy a apuntar al gimnasio mañana.
B1I'm going to sign up for the gym tomorrow.
¿Quién se apunta a la excursión?
B1Who is up for the excursion?
Se apuntaron a un curso de cocina española.
B2They enrolled in a Spanish cooking course.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
present
imperfect
indicative
present
preterite
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: apuntar
Question 1 of 3
If you want to tell a friend you are joining them for dinner, you say...
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'ad-' (toward) and 'punctare' (to prick/mark), originally meaning to make a mark with a sharp point.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'apuntar' always used with 'se'?
No. Use 'apuntar' alone to write something down or point at something. Use 'apuntarse' (with me, te, se, etc.) when you are joining or signing up for an activity.
What is the difference between 'anotar' and 'apuntar'?
They are very similar. 'Anotar' is slightly more formal and implies making an official record, while 'apuntar' is more common in casual conversation for jotting things down.
Can I use 'apuntar' to mean 'to point out' a mistake?
Yes, it can mean to indicate or highlight something, though 'señalar' is also very common for that.