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How to Say "build" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “build” is “construir” — use 'construir' when referring to the physical act of constructing buildings, infrastructure, or large objects..

English → Spanish

construir

kohn-stroo-EER/kon.stɾuˈiɾ/

verbA1
Use 'construir' when referring to the physical act of constructing buildings, infrastructure, or large objects.
A construction worker placing a final red brick on a partially completed wall, symbolizing the act of building a physical structure.

Examples

Están construyendo un nuevo hospital en el centro.

They are building a new hospital downtown.

Mi abuelo construyó esta casa con sus propias manos.

My grandfather built this house with his own hands.

The 'Y' Irregularity

In most forms where the stress falls on the stem, the 'i' changes to 'y' (i.e., construyo, construye). This happens because the 'i' is between two vowels (e.g., constru-i-endo) or at the end of a syllable, creating a 'y' sound.

Missing the 'Y' sound

Mistake: “Using *construio* instead of *construyo*.”

Correction: Remember the 'y' sound in the *yo* form: *construyo*. This pattern is common in '-uir' verbs like *huir* (to flee) and *incluir* (to include).

levantar

/leh-vahn-tar//leβanˈtaɾ/

verbB1
Use 'levantar' specifically for erecting or putting up a structure or monument, often implying a quick or straightforward process.
A construction worker placing the final block on a small, newly built brick wall structure.

Examples

Los obreros levantaron el nuevo edificio en solo seis meses.

The workers built the new building in only six months.

El gobierno necesita levantar más fondos para el proyecto social.

The government needs to raise more funds for the social project.

El director decidió levantar la prohibición de usar móviles.

The director decided to lift (abolish) the ban on using cell phones.

Figurative Use

This meaning extends the idea of 'lifting' something physical to 'lifting' a structure, a sum of money, or a restriction.

levanten

/leh-BAHN-tehn//leˈβanten/

verbA2
Use 'levanten' as the imperative form of 'levantar' to tell someone to raise or erect something, commonly used for raising hands.
A group of happy children raising their hands high in a classroom setting.

Examples

Por favor, levanten la mano si tienen una pregunta.

Please, raise your hand if you have a question.

Quiero que levanten sus juguetes antes de salir.

I want you all to pick up your toys before going out.

Espero que ellos levanten el muro pronto.

I hope they build the wall soon.

Two Roles for 'Levanten'

This word works as a direct command for a group ('Levanten las manos!') and also in sentences where you express a wish ('Espero que levanten las cajas').

Addressing Groups

Use 'levanten' when talking to two or more people. In Latin America, this is used for any group; in Spain, it's the polite/formal way to address a group.

Levantan vs. Levanten

Mistake: “Using 'levantan' for a command.”

Correction: Say '¡Levanten!' for a command. 'Levantan' (with an 'a') is just a statement of fact, like 'they are lifting right now.'

formación

nounB2
Use 'formación' to describe the shape or structure of something, especially natural formations like rocks or clouds, or abstract formations.

Examples

Vimos una formación rocosa muy extraña en el desierto.

We saw a very strange rock formation in the desert.

talla

TAH-yah/ˈtaʎa/

nounB1
Use 'talla' to refer to the size or stature of a person, specifically their height or build.
A very tall adult person standing next to a much shorter child, illustrating the difference in their physical stature or height.

Examples

Es un jugador de alta talla, mide casi dos metros.

He is a tall player; he measures almost two meters.

Mi hermana es de talla mediana, ni muy alta ni muy baja.

My sister is of medium height, neither very tall nor very short.

Using 'Ser de'

To describe a person's general height or stature, you usually use the structure 'ser de + talla' (e.g., 'Ella es de talla pequeña').

Confusing Verbs of Construction

Learners often confuse 'construir' and 'levantar.' Remember that 'construir' is the general term for building, while 'levantar' often implies erecting or raising a structure, especially when it's done relatively quickly or as a specific action.

Related Translations

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