Translation of Spanish word "necesitar" to English
necesitar
/ne.θe.siˈtaɾ/
Meaning
VerbTo have an absolute requirement for.
How to use
In formal or professional contexts, 'necesitar' is often used to convey a sense of urgency or importance. For example, 'La empresa necesita un nuevo gerente para dirigir la división.' (The company needs a new manager to head the division.) Be careful not to confuse 'necesitar' with 'querer', which implies a desire or preference rather than a necessity. For instance, 'Quiero un café, pero no necesito uno.' (I want a coffee, but I don't need one.)
🇬🇧 English
to need
Example
Necesito comprar agua en el supermercado.
I need to buy water at the supermarket.
Nosotros necesitamos más tiempo para estudiar.
We need more time to study.
Your personal vocabulary
🦊 Use this word in a live AI conversationSynonyms
Common phrases
- necesitar ayuda— to need help
- necesitar dinero— to need money
- necesitar tiempo— to need time
- necesitar un lugar— to need a place
- necesitar un objeto— to need an object
This concept in other languages
📖 Related grammar
🦊 Conjugation of the verb "necesitar"Full conjugation →
Present Tense (Presente)
Simple Past (Pretérito Indefinido)
Perfect (Pretérito Perfecto)
he necesitado
Imperative (Imperativo)
Frequency rank: #87 in Spanish
Learn them all! 🚀
Master the 1000 most common Spanish words with smart explanations, audio pronunciation, and spaced repetition.
Start Learning For Free →No sign-up required
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Spanish word "necesitar" mean?▼
The Spanish word "necesitar" means "to need" in English.
How do you pronounce the Spanish word "necesitar"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "necesitar" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "necesitar"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "Necesito comprar agua en el supermercado." (which translates as "I need to buy water at the supermarket.").
More Extended Verbs words
Related reading
What Is Spaced Repetition? The SM-2 Algorithm Explained Simply
Spaced repetition is the single most effective method for memorizing vocabulary. Learn how the forgetting curve works, how the SM-2 algorithm calculates review intervals, and why 20 minutes a day beats 2 hours of cramming.
Read →TipsHow to Build a Daily Language Learning Habit That Sticks (Science-Backed)
Learn the psychology behind habit formation and apply it to language learning. Discover the 2-minute rule, habit stacking, and streak mechanics that keep you consistent.
Read →