definir
“definir” means “to define” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to define
Also: to explain
📝 In Action
¿Puedes definir esta palabra en inglés?
A2Can you define this word in English?
El diccionario define los términos técnicos con claridad.
B1The dictionary defines the technical terms clearly.
Es difícil definir exactamente qué siento por ella.
B2It's hard to define exactly what I feel for her.
to decide, to tone
Also: to determine
📝 In Action
Este gol va a definir el partido.
B1This goal is going to decide the game.
Ella hace pesas para definir sus brazos.
B2She lifts weights to tone her arms.
Debemos definir los límites de nuestra propiedad.
B2We must determine the boundaries of our property.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: definir
Question 1 of 3
If you are at the gym and want to 'tonar' your muscles, which word would you use?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'definire', which means 'to set bounds or limits'. It comes from 'finis' (limit/end).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'definir' irregular in the past tense?
No, it is completely regular in all tenses, including the preterite (past) tense.
Can I use 'definir' to say I am making a decision?
Usually, we use 'decidir' for personal decisions. 'Definir' is used more for clarifying meanings, determining outcomes of events, or establishing boundaries.
What is the difference between 'definir' and 'precisar'?
'Definir' is about providing a full explanation or meaning. 'Precisar' is about being exact or specifying details.