avisar
“avisar” means “notify” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
notify, inform
Also: let know, tell (someone something)
📝 In Action
Avísame cuando llegues a casa, por favor.
A1Let me know when you get home, please.
Tengo que avisar a mi jefe que no podré ir mañana.
A2I have to inform my boss that I won't be able to go tomorrow.
El banco nos avisó del cambio de horario por correo electrónico.
B1The bank notified us of the change in schedule via email.
warn
Also: caution
📝 In Action
El guardia civil nos avisó del tráfico pesado en la carretera.
B1The police officer warned us about the heavy traffic on the road.
Te avisé que ese perro muerde, ¿por qué lo tocaste?
B2I warned you that dog bites, why did you touch it?
Los científicos avisaron al gobierno sobre el riesgo de inundación.
C1The scientists cautioned the government about the risk of flooding.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
🔀 Commonly Confused With
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: avisar
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'avisar' in the sense of 'to warn' about a potential danger?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Old Spanish combination of 'a-' (a prefix meaning 'to' or 'toward') and 'viso,' which comes from the Latin verb *videre* (to see). The original meaning was 'to show' or 'to point out,' which evolved into the modern sense of 'to inform' or 'to make known.'
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I use 'avisar' or 'decir' (to say/tell)?
Use 'avisar' when giving a heads-up, notice, or warning about something that is happening or is about to happen (like a change of plans). Use 'decir' for general statements, commands, or relaying conversations.
Is 'avisar' reflexive (e.g., avisarse)?
Yes, but it's less common. 'Avisarse' means 'to become aware of' or 'to inform oneself.' For example: 'Se avisó del problema a tiempo' (He became aware of the problem in time).