edificar
“edificar” means “to build” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to build
Also: to construct
📝 In Action
Los antiguos romanos decidieron edificar un gran templo en esta colina.
B1The ancient Romans decided to build a great temple on this hill.
Es costoso edificar en terrenos tan inclinados.
B2It is expensive to build on such steep terrain.
El arquitecto fue contratado para edificar el nuevo hospital central.
C1The architect was hired to construct the new central hospital.
to edify
Also: to uplift
📝 In Action
Sus palabras siempre logran edificar a quienes lo escuchan.
C1His words always manage to edify those who listen to him.
Debemos usar las redes sociales para edificar, no para destruir.
B2We should use social media to uplift, not to destroy.
Es una lectura muy edificante para los jóvenes.
C1It is a very edifying read for young people.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: edificar
Question 1 of 3
Which is the correct 'yo' (I) form in the past tense (preterite)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'aedificare', which combines 'aedes' (house or temple) and 'facere' (to make or do). It literally means 'to make a house'.
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
What is the difference between 'edificar' and 'construir'?
'Construir' is general and common for any building or assembling. 'Edificar' is more formal and usually refers specifically to architecture or moral improvement.
Is 'edificar' used in conversation?
It is rare in casual talk. You are more likely to hear it in a sermon, a university lecture on history, or in a legal/architectural context.
Why does the spelling change to 'qu'?
In Spanish, the letter 'c' sounds like an 's' when it's next to 'e' or 'i'. Since 'edificar' has a 'k' sound, we use 'qu' to keep that sound when we add an 'e' ending.