Inklingo

How to Say "achieve" in Spanish

English → Spanish

consiga

kon-SEE-gah/konˈsi.ɣa/

verbB1general
Use 'consiga' when referring to successfully obtaining or acquiring something, especially a specific goal or item, often implying effort.
A joyful child standing on a small stool, successfully reaching up and grasping a large, shiny golden key hanging just above their head.

Examples

Necesito que usted consiga las entradas antes del viernes.

I need you (formal) to get the tickets before Friday.

Ojalá que mi hermana consiga ese ascenso.

Hopefully, my sister gets that promotion.

Consiga un permiso de la oficina central.

Obtain a permit from the central office.

Subjunctive Use

'Consiga' is the special verb form (subjunctive) used when expressing things like wishes ('Espero que...'), doubt ('Dudo que...'), or influence ('Te pido que...').

Formal Command

This form is also used to give polite, formal commands to one person ('Usted'): 'Consiga esto ahora' (Get this now).

Forgetting the Stem Change

Mistake: “Using *consegua* instead of *consiga*.”

Correction: The verb *conseguir* changes its vowel from 'e' to 'i' in the present subjunctive, so always remember the 'i' in *consiga*.

realizar

rreh-ah-lee-SAR/re.a.liˈsaɾ/

verbB2general
Use 'realizar' when talking about accomplishing or bringing about a larger goal, objective, or outcome, often in a more formal or business context.
A figure celebrating on the summit of a mountain peak, symbolizing the achievement of a major goal.

Examples

Esperamos realizar grandes beneficios este trimestre.

We hope to realize (make) great profits this quarter.

Finalmente, pudo realizar su sueño de viajar por el mundo.

He finally managed to realize his dream of traveling the world.

Focus on Outcome

In this sense, 'realizar' focuses on the successful completion or manifestation of something that was previously just an idea or a goal.

saquen

SAH-ken/ˈsa.ken/

verbB1general
Use 'saquen' when referring to the result or outcome of a process, particularly when someone 'gets' or 'obtains' a certain result, like grades.
A smiling student proudly holding a large, shiny golden star sticker, symbolizing a successful result or good grade.

Examples

Deseo que saquen notas más altas este trimestre.

I wish that they get higher grades this term.

Ojalá que saquen el proyecto adelante a tiempo.

Hopefully, they get the project moving forward on time.

Wishes and Hopes

When you express a wish or hope about what others might achieve, you must use the 'saquen' form. For example, 'Espero que saquen un buen resultado' (I hope they get a good result).

Focus on the Outcome vs. The Action

Learners often confuse 'consiga' and 'saquen' when the English is 'achieve'. Remember that 'consiga' emphasizes the effort to *obtain* something specific, while 'saquen' focuses more on the *result* someone receives, like grades or scores. 'Realizar' is for broader objectives.

Related Translations

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