Inklingo

How to Say "to secure" in Spanish

English → Spanish

asegurar

ah-seh-goo-RAHR/aseɣuˈɾaɾ/

verbB1general
Use 'asegurar' when you are physically fastening, fixing, or making something safe and stable.
A shiny silver padlock fastened securely onto a heavy wooden gate, illustrating the act of fastening or making safe.

Examples

El marinero aseguró el barco al muelle.

The sailor secured the boat to the dock.

El carpintero aseguró la mesa a la pared para que no se cayera.

The carpenter secured the table to the wall so it wouldn't fall over.

Asegura la carga con estas cuerdas.

Fasten the load with these ropes.

Securing Actions

This meaning often involves physical objects. Think of it as making sure something is stable and won't move.

confirmar

/kon-fir-MAR//kon.fiɾˈmaɾ/

verbA2general
Use 'confirmar' when you are finalizing or verifying an arrangement, reservation, or appointment.
A single, ornate hotel room key resting on a wooden counter next to a small, neatly packed travel suitcase, symbolizing a confirmed reservation.

Examples

Llamé para confirmar mi cita médica.

I called to confirm my medical appointment.

Necesito llamar al hotel para confirmar mi reserva.

I need to call the hotel to confirm my reservation.

Ya confirmamos los billetes de avión para el viaje.

We already confirmed the plane tickets for the trip.

Confirma tu asistencia antes del viernes, por favor.

Confirm your attendance before Friday, please.

Reflexive Form (Confirmarse)

When used reflexively, 'confirmarse' often means 'to be confirmed' or 'to become official,' focusing on the status change: 'El evento se confirmó ayer' (The event was confirmed yesterday).

obtener

ob-teh-NEHR/oβ.teˈneɾ/

verbC1general
Use 'obtener' when you mean to successfully achieve, get, or acquire something, often after effort.
A small figure standing triumphantly on the peak of a small, grassy hill, raising both arms in a gesture of success, symbolizing achievement.

Examples

Ella trabajó duro para obtener el puesto.

She worked hard to secure the position.

Después de años de estudio, por fin obtuvo su doctorado.

After years of study, he finally achieved his doctorate.

El equipo necesita obtener una victoria para clasificar.

The team needs to secure a victory to qualify.

Confusing 'asegurar' with 'confirmar'

Learners often confuse 'asegurar' (to make safe/fasten) with 'confirmar' (to verify/finalize). Remember that 'asegurar' deals with physical safety or stability, while 'confirmar' is about arrangements and information.

Related Translations

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