señalar
“señalar” means “to point at” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
to point at, to point out
Also: to gesture toward
📝 In Action
El niño señala el avión en el cielo.
A1The boy points at the plane in the sky.
No es de mala educación señalar con el dedo si estás buscando una dirección.
A2It's not rude to point with your finger if you are looking for a direction.
Ella me señaló el camino hacia la estación.
B1She pointed out the way to the station for me.
to indicate, to highlight
Also: to state
📝 In Action
El informe señala que las ventas han subido.
B1The report indicates that sales have gone up.
Es importante señalar este detalle en el contrato.
B2It is important to highlight this detail in the contract.
Los expertos señalan la falta de agua como el problema principal.
C1Experts point out the lack of water as the main problem.
to set, to designate
📝 In Action
El juez señaló la fecha del juicio para el próximo lunes.
B2The judge set the trial date for next Monday.
Han señalado el lugar de reunión en el mapa.
C1They have designated the meeting place on the map.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
present
imperfect
indicative
present
preterite
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: señalar
Question 1 of 3
How do you say 'The boy points at the dog'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'signare', which means to mark, seal, or indicate. This is related to the word 'signum' (sign).
First recorded: 12th 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 'señalar' the same as 'indicar'?
Mostly, yes! They are very close synonyms. However, 'señalar' often implies a more physical act of pointing, while 'indicar' can be more general about giving information.
Does it ever mean 'to signal' (like with a car)?
Usually, we use 'poner la luz' or 'señalizar' for driving. 'Señalar' is rarely used for car turn signals.
How do I say 'point out' in the sense of complaining?
You can use 'señalar', but if you are criticizing someone specifically, you might hear the phrase 'señalar con el dedo' (to point the finger).