lanzar
/lahn-ZAHR/
throw
Lanzar means 'to throw' or propel an object, like tossing a ball.
lanzar(verb)
throw
?to propel an object
,hurl
?to throw with great force
toss
?a casual throw
,pitch
?in sports
📝 In Action
El niño lanzó la pelota muy lejos.
A1The boy threw the ball very far.
Tenemos que lanzar el ancla antes de que empiece la tormenta.
B1We have to drop the anchor before the storm begins.
💡 Grammar Points
Spelling Change Rule (C to Z)
To keep the 's' sound consistent, 'lanzar' changes the 'z' to a 'c' whenever it is followed by the vowel 'e'. This only happens in the 'yo' form of the past simple (lancé) and in the special forms used for wishes and commands (subjunctive).
⭐ Usage Tips
Throwing vs. Dropping
Use 'lanzar' when you actively propel something forward or upward. Use 'dejar caer' (to let fall) if you simply drop something.
When talking about a product or initiative, lanzar means 'to launch'.
lanzar(verb)
launch
?a new product, campaign, or initiative
,release
?a movie or software
introduce
?a new line of goods
,kick off
?a campaign
📝 In Action
La compañía va a lanzar su nuevo teléfono el próximo mes.
B1The company is going to launch its new phone next month.
El cohete se lanzó sin problemas desde la base.
B2The rocket launched without problems from the base.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use with Technology
This meaning is standard when talking about the release of digital products, apps, or anything new to the market. It implies a formal introduction.
Lanzar can mean 'to issue' a warning or threat, signifying the projection of a serious statement.
lanzar(verb)
issue
?a threat or warning
,utter
?a cry or shout
hurl (insults)
?to direct negative words at someone
,raise
?a challenge or question
📝 In Action
El público lanzó un grito de alegría al ver al cantante.
B2The audience let out a cry of joy upon seeing the singer.
El director lanzó una advertencia severa a los empleados.
C1The director issued a severe warning to the employees.
⭐ Usage Tips
Focus on Force
This meaning emphasizes the force or suddenness with which words or sounds are projected. It's often used in news reports or literature.
Used figuratively, lanzar translates to 'dive in,' meaning to start an activity suddenly and enthusiastically.
lanzar(verb)
dive in
?to start something suddenly or enthusiastically
,take the plunge
?to commit to a risk
rush forward
?physical movement
,go for it
?encouragement
📝 In Action
Decidió lanzarse al agua sin dudar.
A2She decided to jump into the water without hesitation.
Llevaba meses pensando en el negocio, y finalmente se lanzó.
B1He had been thinking about the business for months, and finally he took the plunge.
💡 Grammar Points
The 'Se' makes it Reflexive
When you see 'lanzarse' (with the 'se'), it means the action is directed back at the person doing it, usually implying they are propelling themselves or committing themselves fully to an action.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Forgetting the 'Se'
Mistake: "Using 'Él lanzó' when meaning 'He took the plunge'."
Correction: Use 'Él se lanzó' to mean he committed himself. 'Él lanzó' only means 'He threw (an object).'
⭐ Usage Tips
Taking the Leap
This is the perfect word when you want to describe someone finally starting a big project or taking a leap of faith after much hesitation.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: lanzar
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'lanzar' in its figurative business sense?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'lanzar' used for throwing away trash?
Not usually. While 'lanzar' means 'to throw,' for getting rid of garbage or something unwanted, you should use 'tirar' (tirar la basura) or 'echar' (echar a la basura).
Why does 'lanzar' change to 'lancé' in the past tense 'yo' form?
This is a common spelling rule for verbs ending in -zar. The 'z' sound must be written with a 'c' when it comes before the vowel 'e' or 'i' to keep the pronunciation consistent with the rest of the verb family. This only happens in a few specific conjugations.