How to Say "to calculate" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to calculate” is “calcular” — use 'calcular' when you are performing a mathematical operation, a logical process, or an estimation.
kal-koo-larkal.kuˈlaɾ
Examples
Necesito calcular el precio total de la compra.
I need to calculate the total price of the purchase.
El arquitecto calcula las dimensiones del edificio.
The architect calculates the dimensions of the building.
Si calculamos bien el tiempo, no llegaremos tarde.
If we calculate the time well, we won't be late.
It's a Regular Verb
Good news! This verb follows the standard rules for all '-ar' verbs. You don't need to worry about any weird spelling changes in any tense.
Direct Object Use
You usually use this verb followed directly by what you are figuring out, like 'calcular la distancia' (calculate the distance).
Using 'hacer' unnecessarily
Mistake: “Hacer un cálculo de la cuenta.”
Correction: Calcular la cuenta.
day-ter-mee-NARde.teɾ.miˈnaɾ
Examples
La policía no pudo determinar la identidad del sospechoso.
The police could not determine the suspect's identity.
Es crucial determinar la cantidad exacta de material necesario.
It is crucial to ascertain the exact amount of necessary material.
Question Words
When figuring things out, 'determinar' is often followed by a question word (like 'qué,' 'cuándo,' or 'cómo') to introduce the information you are trying to find.
Calculating vs. Determining
Learners often use 'calcular' for any situation where a result is found. Remember that 'calcular' is primarily for math or logic, while 'determinar' is about establishing a fact or identity, even if it involves some analysis.
Related Translations
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