transformar
“transformar” means “to transform” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to transform
Also: to change, to reshape
📝 In Action
El artista quiere transformar el metal en una obra de arte.
A2The artist wants to transform the metal into a work of art.
Las nuevas tecnologías van a transformar nuestra manera de vivir.
B1New technologies are going to transform our way of living.
Ella logró transformar su pequeño negocio en una gran empresa.
B2She managed to transform her small business into a large company.
to convert
Also: to process
📝 In Action
Las placas solares transforman la luz en electricidad.
B1Solar panels convert light into electricity.
Este software puede transformar archivos PDF a Word.
B2This software can convert PDF files to Word.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "transformar" in Spanish:
to reshape→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: transformar
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence correctly says 'He transforms the water into wine'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From Latin 'transformare', where 'trans-' means 'across/beyond' and 'formare' means 'to form'. Literally, it means to go beyond the original form.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'transformar' a regular verb?
Yes! It follows the standard pattern for all verbs ending in -ar, so it is very easy to conjugate once you know the basic rules.
What is the difference between 'transformar' and 'convertir'?
They are very similar. 'Transformar' focuses more on the change of shape, form, or character, while 'convertir' often implies a change in purpose, function, or religion.
How do I say 'The caterpillar transformed into a butterfly'?
You use the 'self' form (reflexive): 'La oruga se transformó en mariposa'.