procurar
“procurar” means “to try” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to try
Also: to ensure, to strive
📝 In Action
Procura llegar a tiempo a la reunión.
A2Try to arrive on time to the meeting.
Debemos procurar que todos los invitados se sientan cómodos.
B1We must ensure that all the guests feel comfortable.
Procuré no hacer ruido al entrar en la casa.
B1I tried not to make noise when entering the house.
to obtain
Also: to provide
📝 In Action
El abogado procuró las pruebas necesarias para el juicio.
C1The lawyer obtained the necessary evidence for the trial.
La empresa procura materias primas de alta calidad.
C1The company procures high-quality raw materials.
Se procuró un buen sitio para ver el desfile.
B2He got himself a good spot to watch the parade.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: procurar
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence means 'I try to eat healthy'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From Latin 'procurare', which combines 'pro-' (in favor of) and 'curare' (to take care of). It literally meant taking care of something on someone else's behalf.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'intentar' and 'procurar'?
'Intentar' is a simple attempt that might fail. 'Procurar' implies more care and effort, often focusing on the result of making sure something happens.
Does 'procurar' mean 'to procure' in English?
Yes, but 'procurar' is much more common in Spanish. While English 'procure' is very formal, Spanish 'procurar' is used everyday to mean 'to try'.
Do I need to use 'de' after 'procurar'?
No. This is a common mistake for learners who know 'tratar de'. Just say 'procuro hacerlo' (I try to do it).