calcular
“calcular” means “to calculate” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to calculate
Also: to compute
📝 In Action
Necesito calcular el precio total de la compra.
A1I need to calculate the total price of the purchase.
El arquitecto calcula las dimensiones del edificio.
B1The architect calculates the dimensions of the building.
Si calculamos bien el tiempo, no llegaremos tarde.
A2If we calculate the time well, we won't be late.
to estimate
Also: to reckon / to figure
📝 In Action
Calculo que habrá unas veinte personas en la fiesta.
B1I estimate that there will be about twenty people at the party.
Calculamos que el viaje durará tres horas.
B1We reckon the trip will take three hours.
Él calculó mal sus fuerzas y se cansó rápido.
B2He misjudged his strength and got tired quickly.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: calcular
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence means 'I estimate that it will rain'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From Latin 'calculare', which comes from 'calculus' meaning 'small stone'. In ancient times, people used little pebbles to help them count and do math.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'calcular' only for math?
Not at all! While it's used for math, it's also very common to use it when guessing how much time something takes or how many people are in a room.
What is the difference between 'calcular' and 'estimar'?
They are very similar. 'Calcular' often implies a bit more logic or data behind the guess, whereas 'estimar' can be slightly more formal or used for values.
Is 'calcular' a regular verb?
Yes! It follows the standard pattern for all verbs ending in -ar, making it very easy to conjugate.