How to Say "to define" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to define” is “definir” — use 'definir' when you are explaining the meaning of a word, a concept, or a subject..
definir
/deh-fee-neer//defiˈniɾ/
Examples
¿Puedes definir esta palabra en inglés?
Can you define this word in English?
El diccionario define los términos técnicos con claridad.
The dictionary defines the technical terms clearly.
Es difícil definir exactamente qué siento por ella.
It's hard to define exactly what I feel for her.
A Friendly Regular Verb
Unlike 'decir' (to say), 'definir' is completely regular. It follows the standard pattern for all verbs ending in -ir.
Direct Objects
When you use this word, you usually need to name the thing you are defining right after it, like 'definir el problema' (to define the problem).
The 'decir' confusion
Mistake: “Yo defigo la palabra.”
Correction: Yo defino la palabra. Just because 'decir' changes to 'digo' doesn't mean 'definir' changes to 'defigo'!
delimitar
/de-lee-mee-TAR//delimiˈtaɾ/
Examples
Debemos delimitar claramente nuestras responsabilidades.
We must clearly define our responsibilities.
El investigador necesita delimitar el tema de su tesis.
The researcher needs to narrow down the topic of his thesis.
Este documento ayuda a delimitar el alcance del contrato.
This document helps specify the scope of the contract.
Abstract Usage
Even though it sounds physical, in professional Spanish, we use this to talk about ideas and work duties to avoid confusion later.
Followed by a Direct Object
This verb doesn't usually need a preposition (like 'of' or 'about') after it. You simply 'delimitar' the thing directly.
Missing Clarity
Mistake: “Using 'decidir' (to decide) when you mean 'to define the extent of'.”
Correction: Instead of 'decidimos el proyecto', say 'delimitamos el proyecto' to mean you set the specific boundaries of what the project will cover.
Definir vs. Delimitar
Related Translations
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