suceder
“suceder” means “to happen” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to happen, to occur
Also: to take place
📝 In Action
¿Qué sucedió anoche en la fiesta?
A1What happened last night at the party?
Las cosas suceden por una razón.
A2Things happen for a reason.
Si sucede algo, llámame inmediatamente.
A2If something occurs, call me immediately.
to succeed, to follow
Also: to take over
📝 In Action
El hijo del rey sucedió a su padre en el trono.
B1The king's son succeeded his father on the throne.
La crisis económica sucedió a un periodo de gran crecimiento.
B2The economic crisis followed a period of great growth.
Ella me sucederá como directora general.
B2She will succeed me as CEO.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
🔀 Commonly Confused With
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: suceder
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'suceder' to mean 'to follow in sequence'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin verb *succēdere*, which literally meant 'to go under' or, more importantly, 'to follow after'. This explains both modern meanings: events 'following' each other, and one person 'following' another in a position.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'suceder' and 'pasar' when they both mean 'to happen'?
'Pasar' is the most common, everyday word for 'to happen' or 'to go by' ('¿Qué pasa?'). 'Suceder' is often used in slightly more formal contexts, in writing, or when emphasizing a significant event or incident.
Can I use 'suceder' to talk about being successful in a career?
No. This is a common mistake! 'Suceder' only means 'to happen' or 'to follow someone.' To talk about achieving success, you must use 'tener éxito' (to have success) or 'ser exitoso' (to be successful).