Inklingo

How to Say "inform" in Spanish

English → Spanish

avisar

ah-vee-SAHR/a.βiˈsaɾ/

verbA1general
Use 'avisar' when you want to let someone know about something, often a notification or a heads-up, like telling them you've arrived or that something will happen.
A simple figure gently tapping another figure on the shoulder while whispering a message into their ear, signifying notification.

Examples

Avísame cuando llegues a casa, por favor.

Let me know when you get home, please.

Tengo que avisar a mi jefe que no podré ir mañana.

I have to inform my boss that I won't be able to go tomorrow.

El banco nos avisó del cambio de horario por correo electrónico.

The bank notified us of the change in schedule via email.

Using 'a' for the Person

When you say WHO you are informing, you must use the word 'a' before the person, like saying 'to' them: 'Avise a Juan' (Inform Juan).

Using 'de' for the Topic

When you specify WHAT you are informing about, use 'de' (of/about): 'Avísame del cambio' (Let me know of the change). If you use a full sentence, use 'que': 'Avísame que vas a llegar tarde'.

Forgetting 'a' before the person

Mistake: “Avise mi madre.”

Correction: Avise a mi madre. (Spanish always needs that 'a' before a person when they receive the action.)

verb (Command Form)A2formal
Use the command form of 'enterar' (like 'entere') when you are formally instructing someone to brief or officially inform a group of people about something important.

Examples

Señor, entere a sus empleados de la nueva política inmediatamente.

Sir, inform your employees of the new policy immediately.

Avisar vs. Enterar

Learners often confuse 'avisar' and 'enterar' because both can mean 'to inform'. Remember that 'avisar' is more about general notification or letting someone know, while 'enterar' (especially in its command form) is about formally briefing or making someone aware of official information.

Related Translations

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