fija
/FEE-hah/
fixed
The word 'fija' can describe something fixed or unmoving, like an anchor on the sea floor.
fija(adjective)
fixed
?attached or not moving
steady
?stable or constant
,permanent
?lasting forever
📝 In Action
La estantería está fija a la pared.
A2The bookshelf is fixed to the wall.
Ella tiene una idea fija en la cabeza.
B1She has a fixed idea in her head.
💡 Grammar Points
Matching the Gender
Since this word ends in '-a', it is the feminine form. Use it when describing feminine words like 'la mesa' or 'la idea'. If the thing you are describing is masculine, use 'fijo' instead.
⭐ Usage Tips
Describing Stares
Use 'fija' with 'mirada' (look/stare) to describe someone looking intensely without blinking.
As a verb, 'fija' refers to the act of setting or fastening something securely.
fija(verb)
fixes
?he/she sets or fastens something
notices
?when used with 'se' (reflexive)
,stares
?to fix one's gaze
📝 In Action
Él fija el cuadro en la pared.
B1He fixes the painting on the wall.
Ella se fija en cada detalle.
B1She notices every detail.
💡 Grammar Points
Multiple Personalities
'Fija' can mean 'he/she fixes' or it can be a command telling a friend to 'Fix!' or 'Notice!' something.
Paying Attention
When you want to say 'notice' or 'pay attention to,' you must add the little word 'se': 'Ella se fija' (She notices).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Fijar vs. Mirar
Mistake: "Using 'fija' when you just mean 'look.'"
Correction: Use 'fija' (with 'se') when you mean 'to notice a detail' or 'pay attention,' not just for the act of seeing.
In a more informal sense, 'fija' can refer to a 'sure thing' or a guaranteed success.
📝 In Action
Ese caballo es una fija.
C1That horse is a sure thing (a guaranteed winner).
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: fija
Question 1 of 2
If you want to tell a friend 'Look closely at this!' which would you use?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'fija' and 'fijo'?
They mean the same thing, but 'fija' is for feminine nouns (like 'una mesa fija') and 'fijo' is for masculine nouns (like 'un precio fijo').
Does 'fija' mean 'to repair' like in English?
Not usually. In Spanish, to repair something broken, we use 'reparar' or 'arreglar'. 'Fija' means to fasten something so it doesn't move or to set a limit.