Inklingo

How to Say "notify" in Spanish

English → Spanish

avisar

ah-vee-SAHR/a.βiˈsaɾ/

verbA1informal
Use 'avisar' when you want to let someone know something personal or give them a heads-up, often in an informal context.
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.)

anunciar

/ah-noon-see-ar//aˈnunθjaɾ/

verbA2formal
Choose 'anunciar' when making a public or formal announcement, like a president declaring new policies or a company revealing news.
A stylized person standing on a small red stage, holding a golden scroll and addressing two small, attentive figures below. The scene represents a formal declaration.

Examples

El presidente anunció nuevas medidas económicas.

The president announced new economic measures.

Vamos a anunciar nuestra boda este fin de semana.

We are going to announce our wedding this weekend.

La tormenta fue anunciada por un cambio brusco de viento.

The storm was heralded (or announced) by a sudden change in the wind.

Using 'Que'

When announcing a fact or piece of news, you often follow 'anunciar' with 'que' plus the normal present tense (indicative): 'Anuncian que el tren llega tarde.'

Mixing up 'anunciar' and 'avisar'

Mistake: “Usando 'anunciar' para dar una advertencia personal.”

Correction: 'Avisar' means to warn or give a personal heads-up, while 'anunciar' is for general or formal declarations. Say 'Te aviso que voy tarde' (I warn you I'm late).

verbA2formal
Use 'enterar' (often in the command form 'entere') when the specific act of informing someone of details, especially in a more official or procedural manner, is required.

Examples

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

Sir, inform your employees of the new policy immediately.

Avisar vs. Anunciar

Learners often confuse 'avisar' and 'anunciar'. Remember that 'avisar' is for letting a specific person know something (like a reminder or update), while 'anunciar' is for a broader, more public declaration.

Related Translations

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