reclamar
“reclamar” means “to claim” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to claim
Also: to demand
📝 In Action
He venido a reclamar mi equipaje.
A2I have come to claim my luggage.
Los ciudadanos reclaman justicia.
B1The citizens are demanding justice.
Debes reclamar la devolución de tu dinero.
B2You should claim a refund of your money.
to complain
Also: to protest
📝 In Action
Fui a la tienda para reclamar por un producto defectuoso.
B1I went to the store to complain about a defective product.
El jugador reclamó al árbitro por el penalti.
B2The player protested to the referee about the penalty.
No sirve de nada reclamar si no tienes el recibo.
B2It's no use complaining if you don't have the receipt.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
🔀 Commonly Confused With
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: reclamar
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence is the most professional way to ask for your money back at a store?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'reclamare', which combines 're-' (again/back) and 'clamare' (to shout or cry out). It originally meant shouting back or crying out against something.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'reclamar' always a regular verb?
Yes! 'Reclamar' follows the standard pattern for all verbs ending in -ar, making it very easy to conjugate.
What is the difference between 'reclamar' and 'quejarse'?
'Quejarse' is like 'to whine' or 'to moan' about a situation. 'Reclamar' is more like 'to file a claim' or 'to demand' a solution to a problem.
Can I use 'reclamar' for the environment (reclaiming land)?
Not usually. In Spanish, for 'reclaiming' land or recycling materials, words like 'recuperar' or 'ganar' are better. 'Reclamar' is almost always about a verbal or written demand.