Inklingo

How to Say "resolve" in Spanish

English → Spanish

voluntad

/boh-loon-TAHD//bolunˈtad/

nounB1general
Use 'voluntad' when referring to the inner drive or determination needed to achieve a goal, especially one that requires sustained effort or self-control.
A small figure straining slightly while successfully pushing a large, colorful block uphill, symbolizing internal drive and mental strength.

Examples

Se necesita mucha voluntad para dejar de fumar.

It takes a lot of willpower to quit smoking.

Su fuerza de voluntad es increíble; nunca se rinde.

Her willpower is incredible; she never gives up.

Use with Strength

To talk about the amount of willpower, you usually use it with the word 'fuerza' (strength) to form the common phrase 'fuerza de voluntad'.

Missing the 'De'

Mistake: “Quiero más fuerza voluntad.”

Correction: Quiero más fuerza de voluntad. (Always include the little word 'de' to link 'fuerza' and 'voluntad'.)

decisión

nounB2general
Choose 'decisión' when 'resolve' specifically means a firm, often made-up mind or a strong commitment to a particular course of action.

Examples

Admiro su decisión para superar los obstáculos.

I admire her determination to overcome obstacles.

fuerzas

FWEHR-sas (or FWEHR-thas in Spain)/fweɾ.θas/

nounA2general
Use 'fuerzas' when 'resolve' relates to one's inner strength or energy, particularly when recovering from a difficulty or when lacking the capacity to act.
A strong person, depicted as a simplified storybook character, easily lifting a large, heavy boulder above their head, illustrating physical strength.

Examples

Después de la enfermedad, le faltaban fuerzas para levantarse.

After the illness, he lacked the strength to get up.

Tenemos que reunir fuerzas antes de la caminata.

We have to gather our energy (or strength) before the hike.

Lo hizo con todas sus fuerzas, pero no fue suficiente.

He did it with all his might, but it wasn't enough.

Always Plural for Energy

When talking about physical or emotional vigor, 'fuerzas' is almost always used in its plural form, even though we often translate it as the singular 'strength' in English.

Missing the S

Mistake: “Usando 'fuerza' para decir 'I don't have strength/energy'.”

Correction: When meaning energy or vigor, use the plural: 'No tengo fuerzas.' (I don't have energy/strength).

Decision vs. Willpower

Learners often confuse 'decisión' and 'voluntad' because both relate to determination. Remember, 'decisión' is about the firmness of a choice or commitment, while 'voluntad' is about the inner power or drive to see it through.

Related Translations

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