How to Say "claims" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “claims” is “afirma” — use 'afirma' when stating a fact or a piece of information that is presented as true, often based on evidence or knowledge..
afirma
/ah-FEER-mah//aˈfiɾma/
Examples
El científico afirma que el clima está cambiando.
The scientist states that the climate is changing.
Ella afirma tener la respuesta correcta.
She claims to have the correct answer.
¡Afirma bien esa escalera!
Make that ladder steady!
Two Roles for One Word
'Afirma' can be used for stating a fact (He states) OR as a command to tell someone to make something steady (Steady it!).
Afirmar vs. Decir
Mistake: “Using 'afirma' for every single thing someone says.”
Correction: Use 'afirma' when someone is making a strong point or stating a fact; use 'dice' for general speaking.
asegura
/ah-seh-GOO-rah//aseˈɣuɾa/
Examples
Ella asegura que no sabe nada del problema.
She claims that she knows nothing about the problem.
El testigo asegura haber visto el coche.
The witness states that they saw the car.
Using the 'That' Connector
When using 'asegura' to report what someone says, always follow it with 'que' (that) to introduce the statement.
Claiming vs. Making Sure
Mistake: “Using 'asegura que' when you mean 'he makes sure.'”
Correction: Use 'se asegura de que' (adding 'se' and 'de') when you want to say someone is checking or guaranteeing a result.
pretende
/pre-TEN-deh//pɾeˈtende/
Examples
El político pretende que sus reformas son las mejores para el país.
The politician claims that his reforms are the best for the country.
La empresa pretende no tener responsabilidad en el accidente.
The company alleges it has no responsibility for the accident.
Claiming Facts
When 'pretender' means 'to claim' something is true, it is usually followed by the word 'que' and then a statement about the claim.
Afirma vs. Pretende
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