presenciar
“presenciar” means “to witness” in Spanish (seeing an event happen firsthand).
to witness
Also: to be present at
📝 In Action
Mucha gente presenció el accidente en la calle principal.
B1Many people witnessed the accident on the main street.
Fue un honor presenciar el discurso del presidente.
B2It was an honor to witness the president's speech.
Queremos presenciar el eclipse desde la montaña.
A2We want to witness the eclipse from the mountain.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "presenciar" in Spanish:
to witness→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: presenciar
Question 1 of 3
Which of the following sentences correctly uses 'presenciar'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From Latin 'praesentiare', which comes from 'praesens' (present). It literally means to make oneself present to see something.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'presenciar' just a fancy way to say 'ver'?
Mostly, yes! While 'ver' is used for anything you see, 'presenciar' adds the nuance that you were physically there and that the event was somewhat important or official.
Can I use it for TV shows?
It sounds a bit strange for TV. It's better for things happening in real life in front of your eyes.
Is it reflexive? Do I say 'me presencié'?
No, it is not used reflexively. You simply say 'presencié el evento'.