fijar
“fijar” means “to set” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to set
Also: to establish
📝 In Action
Tenemos que fijar la fecha de la reunión.
A2We have to set the date for the meeting.
El gobierno fijó el precio de la leche.
B1The government set the price of milk.
Es importante fijar límites claros con los niños.
B2It is important to establish clear boundaries with children.
to notice
Also: to pay attention
📝 In Action
¡Fíjate en esto!
A2Look at this! / Notice this!
No me fijé en su nombre.
B1I didn't notice their name.
Tienes que fijarte más en los detalles.
B2You have to pay more attention to the details.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
present
imperfect
indicative
present
preterite
imperfect
🔀 Commonly Confused With
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: fijar
Question 1 of 3
How would you say 'I didn't notice the price'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'fixare', which means to fasten or make firm.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'fijar' mean to repair a broken thing?
No. Unlike the English word 'fix,' the Spanish word 'fijar' only means to attach something or to establish a rule/date. To fix a broken toy or car, use 'reparar' or 'arreglar'.
When do I use 'fijarse' instead of just 'fijar'?
Use 'fijarse' (the reflexive version) when you want to say 'to notice' or 'to pay attention'. Use the simple 'fijar' when you are setting a price, a date, or literally sticking something to a surface.
Is 'fijar' regular or irregular?
It is completely regular! It follows all the standard rules for verbs ending in -ar.