formar
/for-MAR/
to form
Forming (formar) a structure by stacking simple blocks.
formar(verb)
to form
?to create a structure or group
,to shape
?to mold or give physical form
to make up
?to constitute or compose a whole
,to organize
?to arrange a line or group
📝 In Action
Los estudiantes formaron una fila para entrar al bus.
A2The students formed a line to get on the bus.
El comité se formó con tres miembros de cada departamento.
B1The committee was formed with three members from each department.
La niebla formó un velo sobre el valle.
B2The fog formed a veil over the valley.
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'Formar' for Groups
When 'formar' means 'to make up' a group, it is often used impersonally or in the passive voice, like 'El grupo está formado por...' (The group is made up of...).
⭐ Usage Tips
Context of Shape
Use 'formar' when the focus is on the shape or structure being created, rather than just the simple act of making something.
An instructor training (formar) a student by guiding their hand.
formar(verb)
to train
?to provide skills or instruction
,to educate
?to teach and develop knowledge
to mold
?to shape a person's character or abilities
📝 In Action
Su mentor lo formó como artista durante diez años.
B1His mentor trained him as an artist for ten years.
La escuela se dedica a formar líderes del futuro.
B2The school is dedicated to educating future leaders.
Los valores familiares nos forman desde pequeños.
C1Family values shape us from a young age.
💡 Grammar Points
Transitive Use
In this meaning, 'formar' requires a direct object: someone or something that is being trained or shaped (e.g., 'formar ingenieros' — training engineers).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing 'Formar' and 'Aprender'
Mistake: "Using 'Formar' when you mean 'Aprender' (to learn)."
Correction: 'Yo aprendí a programar' (I learned to program). 'La escuela me formó' (The school trained me).
To train oneself (formar) requires focused practice, like learning to juggle.
formar(verb)
to train oneself
?to study or acquire skills
,to develop
?to grow personally or professionally
to study
?focusing on vocational or higher education
📝 In Action
Ella quiere formarse en energías renovables.
B1She wants to train/study in renewable energy.
Es importante formarse continuamente para el mercado laboral.
B2It is important to continually educate oneself for the job market.
Se formaron como un gran equipo con el tiempo.
B2They developed into a great team over time.
💡 Grammar Points
Reflexive Use ('Se')
When you use 'formarse,' the action is happening to the subject. The 'se' (or 'me,' 'te,' 'nos,' 'os') tells you that the person is training or developing themselves.
⭐ Usage Tips
Formarse vs. Estudiar
'Formarse' often implies a more comprehensive, structured process of education or character development than simply 'estudiar' (to study a specific topic).
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: formar
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'formarse' (reflexive)?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'formar' and 'crear'?
'Crear' means to bring something totally new into existence (like creating a painting). 'Formar' means to give structure, shape, or organization to existing elements (like forming a line or forming a committee). 'Formar' often implies structure or training.
How do I say 'to be formed by'?
You usually use the passive structure 'estar formado por' or 'constar de.' For example, 'El equipo está formado por cinco personas' (The team is formed by five people).