Inklingo

How to Say "to conquer" in Spanish

English → Spanish

conquistar

/kohn-kees-TAHR//koŋkisˈtaɾ/

verbB1general
Use 'conquistar' when talking about taking control of a territory, land, or a significant place, often through force or effort.
A brave knight planting a colorful flag on top of a grassy hill to claim the land.

Examples

Los romanos conquistaron gran parte de Europa.

The Romans conquered a large part of Europe.

Alejandro Magno conquistó muchos territorios.

Alexander the Great conquered many territories.

Es difícil conquistar un país tan grande.

It is difficult to conquer such a large country.

Standard -ar verb

This verb follows the usual rules for verbs ending in -ar. If you know how to use 'hablar', you can use 'conquistar'!

Confusion with 'Ganar'

Mistake: “Using 'conquistar' for winning a simple game.”

Correction: Use 'ganar' for games or prizes. 'Conquistar' is for taking over something through effort or force.

derrotar

/deh-rroh-TAHR//deroˈtaɾ/

verbB2general
Use 'derrotar' when referring to defeating or overcoming something abstract like fears, bad habits, or an opponent in a competition or conflict.
A colorful illustration of a person climbing out of a dark, shadowy hole into a bright, flowery meadow.

Examples

Ella finalmente derrotó sus inseguridades y consiguió el trabajo.

She finally overcame her insecurities and got the job.

Tienes que derrotar tus miedos para seguir adelante.

You have to overcome your fears to move forward.

Finalmente, él derrotó su adicción al tabaco.

Finally, he conquered his addiction to tobacco.

Conquistar vs. Derrotar

Learners often mistakenly use 'conquistar' for internal struggles or defeating an opponent. Remember that 'conquistar' is primarily for territories and physical places, while 'derrotar' is for overcoming challenges, fears, or beating someone in a contest.

Related Translations

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