Inklingo

How to Say "to refresh" in Spanish

English → Spanish

actualizar

/ak-twah-lee-sar//aktwaliˈsaɾ/

verbA2general
Use 'actualizar' when you need to update digital content like a webpage, software, or database to its latest version or state.
A smartphone screen showing a loading progress bar with a glowing gear icon.

Examples

Necesito actualizar mi teléfono para que funcione mejor.

I need to update my phone so it works better.

El sistema se está actualizando automáticamente.

The system is updating automatically.

Por favor, actualiza la página para ver los cambios.

Please refresh the page to see the changes.

The Z to C spelling change

When the letter 'z' is followed by an 'e', it changes to a 'c' to keep the same sound. This happens in the 'yo' form of the past tense (actualicé) and in many command forms.

Don't say 'actual' to mean update

Mistake: “Voy a actual mi computadora.”

Correction: Voy a actualizar mi computadora.

refrescar

reh-frehs-KAHR/refresˈkar/

verbB1general
Use 'refrescar' when you want to revive a memory, clear your mind, or make a computer screen display current information.
A person splashing cool water on their face from a ceramic bowl.

Examples

Necesito refrescar mi memoria antes del examen.

I need to refresh my memory before the exam.

Refresca la página web para ver los cambios.

Refresh the webpage to see the changes.

Voy a refrescar mis conocimientos de inglés este verano.

I'm going to brush up on my English knowledge this summer.

Direct Objects

When refreshing a screen or memory, the thing being refreshed comes directly after the verb without a preposition.

Refreshing People

Mistake: “Saying 'Necesito refrescarte' to mean 'I need to remind you'.”

Correction: Say 'Necesito refrescarte la memoria'. You refresh the memory, not the person (unless you are throwing water on them!).

Actualizar vs. Refrescar

Learners often confuse 'actualizar' and 'refrescar' for digital contexts. Remember that 'actualizar' implies a significant update or change, like installing new software. 'Refrescar' in digital terms usually means simply reloading or displaying the most current version, like refreshing a webpage.

Related Translations

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