sirve
“sirve” means “it works” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
it works, it is useful
Also: he/she is useful
📝 In Action
¿Para qué sirve esta llave?
A1What is this key for (what purpose does it serve)?
Mi computadora no sirve. Está rota.
A2My computer doesn't work (is useless). It's broken.
Esta medicina sirve para aliviar el dolor.
A2This medicine is useful for relieving pain.
he/she serves, you serve (formal)
Also: it serves (portion)
📝 In Action
La camarera sirve las bebidas rápidamente.
A1The waitress serves the drinks quickly.
Esta paella sirve para cuatro personas.
B1This paella serves four people (is enough for four people).
he/she serves
Also: he/she is employed by
📝 In Action
El presidente sirve a su nación con total dedicación.
B1The president serves his nation with total dedication.
Ella sirve de enlace entre los dos departamentos.
B2She serves as a link between the two departments.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "sirve" in Spanish:
it works→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: sirve
Question 1 of 2
Which English phrase best translates 'Este paraguas no sirve'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The verb 'servir' comes directly from the Latin word *servīre*, meaning 'to be a slave' or, more generally, 'to serve.' Its meaning expanded over time to include any kind of useful function or help.
First recorded: Before the 10th century in Old Spanish.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'sirve' a regular verb?
No, 'sirve' comes from the verb 'servir,' which is irregular because of the 'e to i' stem change in the present tense (e.g., s**i**rvo, s**i**rves, s**i**rve). However, its endings follow the typical -ir pattern.
Can I use 'sirve' to mean 'to help'?
Yes, indirectly. Saying 'sirve para...' (it serves for...) means it helps achieve a purpose. But if you want to say 'he helps me,' you would usually use 'ayuda' (Ayuda a María) instead of 'sirve'.