enseñar
“enseñar” means “to teach” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to teach, to educate
Also: to train
📝 In Action
Mi abuela me enseñó a cocinar paella.
A1My grandmother taught me how to cook paella.
¿Quién te enseña español este año?
A1Who is teaching you Spanish this year?
El profesor enseña matemáticas en la universidad.
A2The professor teaches mathematics at the university.
to show, to display
Also: to point out
📝 In Action
El guía nos enseñó la catedral antigua.
A2The guide showed us the old cathedral.
No puedes enseñar tu pasaporte caducado.
B1You cannot display your expired passport.
La niña me enseñó su dibujo favorito.
A2The girl showed me her favorite drawing.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: enseñar
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'enseñar' in the sense of 'to show/display' rather than 'to teach'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Vulgar Latin *insignare, which means 'to mark' or 'to point out.' This origin explains both meanings: marking a path (showing) and marking knowledge (teaching).
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 'enseñar' the only word for 'to teach'?
No, but it is the most common and standard term. You can also use 'instruir' or 'educar,' but 'enseñar' is generally the verb you will hear and use most frequently in daily conversation.
What is the difference between 'enseñar' and 'mostrar'?
Both mean 'to show.' 'Enseñar' is often used when showing an object you possess or when giving a guided tour (showing a place). 'Mostrar' is slightly more formal but often interchangeable, especially when just displaying information or an object.