necesitar
“necesitar” means “to need” in Spanish (require something or someone).
to need
Also: to require, to be in want of
📝 In Action
Necesito un café antes de empezar a trabajar.
A1I need a coffee before starting work.
¿Tú necesitas ayuda con ese problema de matemáticas?
A1Do you need help with that math problem?
El coche necesita mucha gasolina para este viaje.
A2The car requires a lot of gasoline for this trip.
Necesitamos que firmes estos documentos hoy mismo.
B1We need you to sign these documents today.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: necesitar
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly expresses that *I* need *my friend* to call me?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes directly from the Latin word *necessitas*, meaning 'unavoidable requirement' or 'constraint.' The word has barely changed its core meaning over the centuries, emphasizing how fundamental the concept of 'need' is.
First recorded: Medieval Latin period (around the 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 'necesitar' the same as 'tener que'?
No, they are slightly different! 'Necesitar' expresses a personal requirement or lack (I need water). 'Tener que' means 'to have to' and expresses an obligation or strong duty (I have to work today).
Can I use 'necesitar' to talk about emotional needs?
Absolutely! You can use it for both physical needs (Necesito agua) and emotional needs (Necesito verte, I need to see you) or abstract concepts (Necesitas más fe, You need more faith).