Inklingo

How to Say "to schedule" in Spanish

English → Spanish

programar

/pro-gra-MAR//pɾoɡɾaˈmaɾ/

verbA1general
Use 'programar' when setting a specific time for an event, task, or appliance to start or operate, often automatically.
A person holding a physical planner with colorful stickers and markings to organize events.

Examples

El concierto está programado para las nueve de la noche.

The concert is scheduled for nine o'clock at night.

He programado la lavadora para las ocho.

I have set the washing machine for eight o'clock.

Necesitamos programar una reunión para mañana.

We need to schedule a meeting for tomorrow.

El canal va a programar una serie nueva el próximo mes.

The channel is going to schedule a new series next month.

Programar vs Planear

Use 'programar' when you are setting a specific time or using a calendar/machine. Use 'planear' for general intentions or thinking about the future.

Using 'Set' like English

Mistake: “Voy a poner la reunión para las 5.”

Correction: Voy a programar la reunión para las 5.

planificar

/plah-nee-fee-KAHR//planifiˈkaɾ/

verbB1general
Use 'planificar' when you are organizing and strategizing the timing and execution of multiple tasks or a complex event.
A hiker looking at a large paper map spread out on a wooden table, preparing for a journey.

Examples

Debemos planificar las etapas del proyecto con antelación.

We must plan the project stages in advance.

Tenemos que planificar la reunión con mucho cuidado.

We have to plan the meeting very carefully.

Ella planificó todo su viaje por Europa en una hoja de cálculo.

She mapped out her entire trip through Europe on a spreadsheet.

Es difícil planificar el futuro cuando las cosas cambian tanto.

It is difficult to plan for the future when things change so much.

The Spelling 'Swap'

When you use the 'yo' form in the past (Preterite), the 'c' changes to 'qu' (planifiqué). This is just to keep the hard 'k' sound from the original word.

Direct Planning

Unlike English which often uses 'plan for,' Spanish usually goes straight to the object: 'planificar el evento' (plan the event).

Adding unnecessary words

Mistake: “Estoy planificando para mi boda.”

Correction: Estoy planificando mi boda.

concertar

/kon-ser-tar//konθerˈtaɾ/

verbB1general
Use 'concertar' specifically when arranging or agreeing upon a time for a meeting or appointment, often involving direct communication.
Two people shaking hands across a wooden table with two mugs of coffee.

Examples

Voy a concertar una cita con el dentista la próxima semana.

I am going to schedule an appointment with the dentist next week.

Llamé a la clínica para concertar una cita médica.

I called the clinic to arrange a medical appointment.

Hemos concertado una reunión para el próximo lunes a las diez.

We have scheduled a meeting for next Monday at ten.

Es difícil concertar una entrevista con el director.

It is difficult to set up an interview with the director.

The 'Boot' Change

This verb is a 'stem-changer.' The letter 'e' in the middle changes to 'ie' in most present tense forms, except for 'we' (nosotros) and 'you all' (vosotros).

Direct Action

Unlike English, which often uses 'for' (arrange for a meeting), in Spanish you 'concertar' the thing directly without a preposition.

Confusing with Music

Mistake: “Thinking 'concertar' only refers to musical concerts.”

Correction: While 'concierto' is a concert, the verb 'concertar' is mostly used for arranging professional meetings or agreements.

Missing the Stem Change

Mistake: “Yo concerto una cita.”

Correction: Yo concierto una cita. (Remember the 'e' becomes 'ie' when you stress it!)

Programar vs. Planificar

Learners often confuse 'programar' and 'planificar'. Remember that 'programar' is about setting a specific time, like for a machine or event, while 'planificar' involves more detailed organization and strategy for a series of actions.

Related Translations

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