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A2 verb #2,500 الأكثر شيوعاً 10 دقيقة للقراءة

señalar

تدرّب عليها أمثلة ملاحظات ونصائح señalar في 30 ثانية
الشرح señalar in your Level:
At the A1 beginner level, the verb 'señalar' is introduced as a highly practical, concrete action word that learners use to interact with their immediate physical environment. When you are just starting to learn Spanish, your vocabulary is naturally limited. You might not know the names of all the objects around you, the specific foods on a menu, or the landmarks in a city. In these situations, the physical act of pointing becomes an essential, universal communication tool, and the word 'señalar' describes exactly this action. For instance, if you are in a market and want to buy a specific fruit but cannot remember the word for 'apple', you can point to it. The vendor might ask, '¿Puede señalar lo que quiere?' (Can you point to what you want?). This basic utility makes 'señalar' a survival verb. Furthermore, 'señalar' is a completely regular -ar verb in the present tense, which makes it very easy for A1 learners to conjugate and practice. You simply drop the -ar ending and add the standard present tense endings: yo señalo, tú señalas, él/ella/usted señala, nosotros/nosotras señalamos, vosotros/vosotras señaláis, ellos/ellas/ustedes señalan. Practicing this conjugation helps reinforce the standard patterns of Spanish verbs without the stress of stem changes or irregularities. At this stage, learners should focus on using 'señalar' with simple direct objects, such as 'señalar el libro' (to point at the book), 'señalar la puerta' (to point at the door), or 'señalar el coche' (to point at the car). It is also commonly introduced alongside basic classroom vocabulary. Teachers frequently use this verb to give instructions, saying things like 'Señala la respuesta correcta' (Point to the correct answer) or 'Señala la imagen' (Point to the image). This helps students associate the spoken word with a physical action, a key technique in Total Physical Response (TPR) language learning. While pointing with the finger ('señalar con el dedo') can be considered impolite in some social contexts, the phrase itself is linguistically important to learn early on. By mastering 'señalar' at the A1 level, students build a solid foundation for more complex interactions where indicating, referencing, and identifying are required. It bridges the gap between knowing a word and needing to reference an object in the real world.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
As learners progress to the A2 level, their understanding and application of 'señalar' expand beyond simple physical pointing to include more functional and navigational uses. At this stage, students are learning how to describe their routines, give and receive directions, and talk about locations in a city. 'Señalar' becomes a crucial verb in these contexts. For example, when looking at a map, an A2 learner can say, 'Quiero señalar mi casa en el mapa' (I want to point out my house on the map). This shows an ability to use the verb to connect a representation (the map) with reality. Additionally, A2 students begin to use 'señalar' to talk about identifying things within a group, such as 'señalar al ladrón' (to point out the thief) in a simple story or description. This introduces the important grammatical concept of the personal 'a'. Because 'señalar' takes a direct object, learners must remember to use 'a' when the object being pointed at is a person. This is a common stumbling block, but practicing phrases like 'El niño señala a su madre' (The boy points at his mother) helps solidify the rule. Furthermore, A2 learners start encountering 'señalar' in the context of time and schedules. They learn that clocks and watches 'point to' or indicate the time: 'El reloj señala las tres' (The clock points to three). They also begin to use the verb in the past tenses (preterite and imperfect) to recount events. For instance, 'Ayer, el profesor señaló mis errores' (Yesterday, the teacher pointed out my mistakes). This transition from the present tense to the past tenses allows learners to tell simple narratives where someone indicated or highlighted something. The vocabulary surrounding 'señalar' also grows; students learn words like 'el dedo' (the finger), 'la dirección' (the direction), and 'el error' (the mistake), which frequently collocate with the verb. By the end of the A2 level, 'señalar' is no longer just a survival tool for when vocabulary fails; it is an active, descriptive verb used to navigate the physical world, recount past actions, and interact with basic informational tools like maps and clocks.
At the B1 intermediate level, the usage of 'señalar' undergoes a significant shift from the purely physical and concrete to the abstract and communicative. While B1 learners still use the verb to mean 'to point at', they increasingly use it to mean 'to point out', 'to note', or 'to indicate' a fact, an idea, or an error in a conversation or text. This marks a crucial step in language acquisition, as learners begin to express opinions, summarize information, and engage in more complex discussions. For example, a B1 student might say, 'Quiero señalar que este problema es muy importante' (I want to point out that this problem is very important). Here, 'señalar' is followed by the conjunction 'que' to introduce a subordinate clause. This structure ('señalar que') is incredibly common and serves as a slightly more formal and precise alternative to simply using 'decir' (to say). It allows the speaker to draw special attention to a specific point. In writing, such as simple essays or emails, B1 students use 'señalar' to organize their thoughts and highlight key arguments. They also begin to encounter the verb in reading comprehension exercises, particularly in news articles or informational texts, where journalists use it to report statements: 'El artículo señala que la contaminación ha aumentado' (The article points out that pollution has increased). Additionally, B1 learners are introduced to the metaphorical use of 'señalar con el dedo' meaning to blame or accuse someone. Understanding this idiom adds cultural and conversational depth to their vocabulary. Grammatically, students at this level practice using 'señalar' with indirect object pronouns to specify to whom something is being pointed out: 'Me señaló el error' (He pointed out the error to me). They also start using it in the future and conditional tenses to discuss plans or hypothetical situations: 'El jefe señalará los nuevos objetivos mañana' (The boss will indicate the new objectives tomorrow). Overall, at the B1 level, 'señalar' becomes a powerful tool for intellectual engagement, allowing learners to highlight information, structure their arguments, and comprehend intermediate-level texts with greater nuance.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
At the B2 upper-intermediate level, learners are expected to use 'señalar' with a high degree of fluency, accuracy, and stylistic awareness. The verb is now firmly established as a key component of their academic and professional vocabulary. B2 students frequently use 'señalar' to analyze texts, debate complex topics, and deliver presentations. In these contexts, 'señalar' is often used synonymously with verbs like 'destacar' (to highlight), 'subrayar' (to underline/emphasize), and 'indicar' (to indicate). A hallmark of B2 proficiency is the ability to use impersonal and passive constructions to maintain an objective, formal tone. Consequently, learners frequently use the structure 'se señala' (it is pointed out / it is noted). For example, in an essay, a student might write, 'En este informe se señala la necesidad de actuar rápido' (In this report, the need to act quickly is pointed out). This demonstrates an advanced grasp of Spanish syntax and register. Furthermore, B2 learners use 'señalar' to navigate the nuances of reported speech and attribution. Instead of relying on basic verbs of communication, they use 'señalar' to attribute a specific, emphasized point to an author or speaker: 'Como señala el autor en el segundo capítulo...' (As the author points out in the second chapter...). This phrasing is essential for university-level writing and professional correspondence. At this level, students also master the use of 'señalar' in the context of scheduling and administration, understanding that 'señalar una fecha' means to officially set or designate a date for an event, such as a meeting or a trial. They are also comfortable using the verb in the subjunctive mood to express desires, doubts, or recommendations regarding what should be highlighted: 'Es importante que el profesor señale los errores más comunes' (It is important that the teacher point out the most common mistakes). The B2 learner understands the subtle negative connotations 'señalar' can carry when used to mean 'to single out' or 'to stigmatize' someone in a social context ('sentirse señalado'). By mastering these diverse and sophisticated applications, the B2 student uses 'señalar' to communicate with precision, authority, and cultural sensitivity.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
At the C1 advanced level, the use of 'señalar' is characterized by complete mastery of its varied meanings, syntactic structures, and subtle pragmatic implications. C1 speakers deploy the verb effortlessly across all registers, from casual idiomatic speech to highly formal academic and legal discourse. In advanced writing and debate, 'señalar' is a critical rhetorical device. It is used to carefully dissect arguments, draw attention to subtle discrepancies, and guide the listener or reader through complex logical structures. A C1 user might employ phrases like 'Cabe señalar que...' (It should be noted that...) or 'Es preciso señalar...' (It is necessary to point out...) as sophisticated transition markers that elevate the formality and authority of their discourse. They understand the exact semantic boundaries between 'señalar', 'advertir' (to warn/note), 'apuntar' (to point/note), and 'precisar' (to specify), choosing the absolute perfect verb for the specific context. In legal and administrative Spanish, which C1 learners often encounter or produce, 'señalar' is the standard terminology for establishing formal parameters. For instance, 'La ley señala los límites de esta jurisdicción' (The law establishes/indicates the limits of this jurisdiction) or 'El juez procedió a señalar el día para la vista oral' (The judge proceeded to set the day for the oral hearing). Furthermore, C1 speakers are highly attuned to the sociolinguistic and emotional weight of the verb. They understand the profound impact of 'ser señalado' (to be singled out/stigmatized) in discussions about sociology, discrimination, or public shaming. They can discuss how society 'señala' certain behaviors or groups, using the verb to analyze complex cultural dynamics. Grammatically, there are no hesitations; C1 users flawlessly integrate 'señalar' into complex sentences involving the passive voice, the subjunctive in all its tenses, and intricate relative clauses. They might say, 'No creo que el informe haya señalado adecuadamente las deficiencias estructurales' (I don't think the report adequately pointed out the structural deficiencies). At this level, 'señalar' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a finely tuned instrument for intellectual precision, rhetorical elegance, and nuanced social commentary.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
At the C2 mastery level, the speaker's relationship with the verb 'señalar' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. The usage is instinctive, culturally embedded, and stylistically flawless. C2 users do not merely know what the word means; they understand its historical weight, its literary applications, and its exact resonance in any given context. In literature and high-level academic prose, a C2 user appreciates how 'señalar' can be used to foreshadow events or delineate character traits. They can seamlessly integrate it into complex, multi-clause sentences that demand perfect rhythmic and syntactic balance. For example: 'Aun a riesgo de parecer redundante, resulta insoslayable señalar la dicotomía que el autor plantea desde los albores de su obra.' (Even at the risk of seeming redundant, it is unavoidable to point out the dichotomy the author presents from the dawn of his work). The C2 speaker effortlessly navigates the most obscure and specialized collocations of the verb. They are familiar with its usage in niche fields such as semiotics (where a 'señal' and the act of 'señalar' are foundational concepts), jurisprudence, and classical rhetoric. They also possess a deep, intuitive grasp of the idioms and proverbs associated with the verb, using them not as memorized phrases, but as natural expressions of thought. They understand the profound psychological implications of 'el dedo que señala' (the pointing finger) as a metaphor for guilt, accusation, or destiny. Furthermore, a C2 user can play with the verb, using it ironically, metaphorically, or poetically. They might describe a landscape where 'los picos de las montañas señalan un cielo amenazador' (the mountain peaks point to a threatening sky), personifying nature through the verb. In terms of grammar, the C2 speaker executes the most complex subjunctive and conditional perfect structures without conscious effort, such as 'De haber sabido las consecuencias, jamás habría señalado a su compañero como el instigador' (Had he known the consequences, he never would have singled out his companion as the instigator). At the C2 level, 'señalar' is wielded with absolute precision, demonstrating a profound command of the Spanish language's capacity for detail, attribution, and emphasis.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
تدرّب عليها أمثلة ملاحظات ونصائح

señalar في 30 ثانية

  • Physically pointing at an object, person, or direction using a finger or tool.
  • Verbally or textually pointing out a fact, error, or important detail.
  • Setting or marking a specific date, time, or deadline in formal contexts.
  • Singling someone out, often carrying a negative connotation of blame or stigma.
The Spanish verb 'señalar' is a versatile and fundamental word that primarily means 'to point at something' or 'to indicate'. Understanding its core meaning requires looking at its physical and abstract applications. Physically, it involves using a finger, a pointer, or an object to direct someone's attention to a specific location, person, or thing. Abstractly, it means to highlight, note, or draw attention to a fact, an error, or a specific detail in a conversation or text.
Physical Pointing
Directing attention using a physical gesture, often with the index finger or a tool.

El niño no paraba de señalar los juguetes en el escaparate de la tienda.

Beyond the physical realm, 'señalar' is heavily used in academic, professional, and daily discourse to mean 'to point out' or 'to note'. When you read a news article, the journalist might 'señalar' a discrepancy in a politician's statement.
Abstract Indication
Drawing mental or verbal attention to a concept, fact, or issue.

El profesor quiso señalar la importancia de estudiar todos los días.

Another crucial layer of meaning involves marking or setting something apart. For example, you can 'señalar' a date on a calendar or 'señalar' a page in a book. This ties back to the etymology of the word, related to 'señal' (signal or mark).
Marking or Setting
Establishing a specific time, date, or physical mark on an object.

Vamos a señalar el día de la reunión en el calendario para no olvidarlo.

The versatility of 'señalar' makes it indispensable. Whether you are a tourist trying to buy a pastry by pointing at it, a student highlighting a thesis in an essay, or a manager setting a deadline, this verb is your go-to tool.

El testigo procedió a señalar al culpable durante el juicio.

It is also worth noting that 'señalar' can carry a negative connotation when used to mean 'to single out' or 'to stigmatize' someone. If a person is 'señalado', they are marked by society or a group, often for criticism.

No es justo señalar a un solo empleado por el fracaso de todo el equipo.

Mastering 'señalar' early in your Spanish journey will unlock a wide range of expressive capabilities, allowing you to navigate both concrete physical environments and complex intellectual discussions with ease and precision.
Using 'señalar' correctly depends heavily on the context, the prepositions that follow it, and the intended level of formality. As a regular -ar verb, its conjugation is straightforward, making it accessible even to beginners. However, its syntactic behavior can vary. When used for physical pointing, it often takes a direct object or is followed by a prepositional phrase indicating direction.
Direct Object Usage
When pointing at a specific thing, the thing is the direct object.

Ella decidió señalar el camino correcto hacia la montaña.

When 'señalar' means 'to point out a fact', it is frequently followed by the conjunction 'que' (that) to introduce a subordinate clause. This is incredibly common in writing, debates, and formal speech.
Subordinate Clauses
Using 'señalar que' to state a fact or opinion.

El informe vuelve a señalar que las ventas han disminuido este trimestre.

You will also encounter 'señalar' used reflexively or in passive constructions, such as 'se señala' (it is pointed out). This impersonal form is a staple of journalistic and academic registers, allowing the writer to state a fact without attributing it to a specific person.
Impersonal Passive
Using 'se señala' to maintain an objective tone.

En el artículo se vuelve a señalar la necesidad de reformas urgentes.

Another important usage is setting a date or time. In legal or formal administrative contexts, 'señalar' is the standard verb for scheduling.

El juez va a señalar la fecha para la próxima audiencia.

Finally, consider the phrase 'señalar con el dedo' (to point with the finger). While literally meaning to point, it is frequently used metaphorically to mean 'to blame' or 'to accuse'.

Es muy fácil señalar con el dedo cuando las cosas salen mal, pero es difícil asumir la responsabilidad.

By understanding these different syntactic structures—direct objects, 'que' clauses, impersonal forms, scheduling contexts, and idiomatic expressions—you can deploy 'señalar' accurately across any conversational or written landscape.
The verb 'señalar' is ubiquitous in the Spanish-speaking world, appearing in virtually every context from casual street conversations to high-level academic discourse. Its presence is a testament to its fundamental utility. In everyday life, you will hear it constantly when people are giving directions. If you ask a local how to get to the museum, they might physically point and use the verb to describe their action.
Giving Directions
Used by locals and guides to orient someone in a physical space.

El guía turístico empezó a señalar los monumentos más antiguos de la plaza.

In the classroom, teachers use 'señalar' to direct students' attention to the board, a specific page in a textbook, or an error in their work. It is a core part of pedagogical vocabulary.
Educational Settings
Teachers pointing out errors or highlighting important information.

La maestra usó un marcador rojo para señalar las faltas de ortografía.

In the news media, 'señalar' is one of the most common verbs used to report what someone said or to highlight a specific issue. Journalists use it to attribute statements without using the repetitive verb 'decir' (to say).
Journalism and Media
Reporting statements, highlighting societal issues, or pointing out discrepancies.

El presidente quiso señalar que la economía está mejorando rápidamente.

In legal and administrative environments, you will hear 'señalar' in the context of setting appointments, court dates, or deadlines. It carries a tone of official establishment.

El tribunal acaba de señalar el martes como el día del veredicto final.

Finally, in social dynamics and gossip, 'señalar' is heard when people are talking about someone being judged or ostracized by the community.

Después del escándalo, todos empezaron a señalar al alcalde por las calles.

Because it spans physical, intellectual, administrative, and social domains, 'señalar' is a word you will encounter daily. Tuning your ear to its various applications will significantly improve your comprehension of native Spanish media and conversation.
While 'señalar' is a regular verb and relatively easy to conjugate, learners frequently make mistakes regarding its prepositions, its distinction from similar verbs, and its cultural connotations. One of the most common grammatical errors is forgetting the personal 'a' when pointing at a person. Because 'señalar' takes a direct object, pointing at a human requires this specific preposition.
Missing Personal 'A'
Failing to use 'a' when the direct object is a person.

Incorrecto: Señaló el hombre. Correcto: Volvió a señalar al hombre.

Another frequent mistake is confusing 'señalar' with 'enseñar'. While 'enseñar' means to show or to teach, 'señalar' specifically means to point at or indicate. If you want to show someone a picture, you use 'enseñar'. If you want to point at a specific detail in that picture, you use 'señalar'.
Señalar vs. Enseñar
Mixing up 'to point at' with 'to show/teach'.

Quiero enseñarte mi dibujo y señalar mi parte favorita.

Learners also struggle with the metaphorical use of 'señalar'. Translating 'to point out' literally from English can sometimes lead to awkward phrasing. In Spanish, 'señalar' inherently means 'to point out', so you do not need to add words like 'fuera' (out).
Literal Translation of 'Point Out'
Adding unnecessary adverbs to match English phrasal verbs.

No digas 'señalar fuera'; simplemente debes señalar el error.

Culturally, a common mistake is not realizing that physically pointing at people (señalar con el dedo) is considered impolite in many Hispanic cultures. While the grammar might be correct, the action is a faux pas.

Mi madre siempre me decía que es de mala educación señalar a las personas en la calle.

Lastly, learners sometimes overuse 'decir' in writing when 'señalar' would be much more precise and professional.

En lugar de escribir 'el autor dice', es mejor escribir 'el autor procede a señalar'.

By avoiding these pitfalls—remembering the personal 'a', distinguishing it from 'enseñar', avoiding literal phrasal verb translations, respecting cultural norms, and using it to elevate your writing—you will use 'señalar' like a native speaker.
The Spanish language is rich with verbs that share semantic territory with 'señalar'. Understanding the nuances between these synonyms will greatly enhance your vocabulary and precision. The most direct synonym is 'indicar' (to indicate). While they are often interchangeable, 'indicar' can sometimes feel slightly more formal or abstract, whereas 'señalar' retains a stronger connection to the physical act of pointing or making a mark.
Indicar
To indicate, suggest, or show; often used for signs, symptoms, or directions.

El termómetro sirve para indicar la temperatura, pero tú puedes señalar el número con el dedo.

Another related word is 'mostrar' (to show). As mentioned earlier, 'mostrar' is about displaying something in its entirety so it can be seen, while 'señalar' is about directing focus to a specific point within that display.
Mostrar
To show, display, or exhibit something to someone.

Me va a mostrar su nueva casa y a señalar dónde pondrá los muebles.

When 'señalar' is used in the sense of highlighting or emphasizing a point in a text or speech, words like 'destacar' (to highlight/stand out) and 'subrayar' (to underline/emphasize) become excellent alternatives. 'Destacar' implies making something prominent, while 'subrayar' literally means to draw a line under something, but is used metaphorically to mean emphasize.
Destacar / Subrayar
To highlight, emphasize, or underline the importance of something.

El orador quiso destacar la crisis y señalar las posibles soluciones.

For the physical act of pointing a weapon or aiming, 'apuntar' is the correct verb. While you can 'apuntar' a gun or a telescope, you 'señalar' with a finger.

No debes apuntar con un arma, ni tampoco señalar con el dedo de forma agresiva.

Finally, 'marcar' (to mark) is a close cousin, especially when referring to setting a date or leaving a physical trace.

Vamos a marcar el documento con rojo para señalar los errores graves.

By mastering these distinctions, you can choose the exact word you need, elevating your Spanish from functional to fluent and expressive.

How Formal Is It?

مستوى الصعوبة

قواعد يجب معرفتها

Personal 'A' with direct objects

Subordinate noun clauses with 'que'

Impersonal 'se' constructions

Direct object pronouns (lo, la, los, las)

Regular -ar verb conjugation in preterite

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

أمثلة حسب المستوى

1

El niño señala el perro.

The boy points at the dog.

Present tense, 3rd person singular. Direct object 'el perro'.

2

Yo señalo la puerta.

I point at the door.

Present tense, 1st person singular 'yo señalo'.

3

¿Puedes señalar el baño?

Can you point to the bathroom?

Infinitive used after the modal verb 'puedes'.

4

Ella señala el libro rojo.

She points at the red book.

Present tense. Adjective 'rojo' follows the noun 'libro'.

5

Nosotros señalamos la casa.

We point at the house.

Present tense, 1st person plural 'nosotros señalamos'.

6

Señala la respuesta, por favor.

Point to the answer, please.

Imperative (command) form for 'tú'.

7

Ellos señalan el coche azul.

They point at the blue car.

Present tense, 3rd person plural 'ellos señalan'.

8

No debes señalar con el dedo.

You must not point with your finger.

Infinitive after 'debes'. Common phrase 'señalar con el dedo'.

1

Ayer señalé mi ciudad en el mapa.

Yesterday I pointed out my city on the map.

Preterite tense, 1st person singular 'señalé'.

2

El reloj señala las cinco de la tarde.

The clock points to five in the afternoon.

Used to indicate time. Present tense.

3

El profesor señaló mis errores en el examen.

The teacher pointed out my mistakes on the exam.

Preterite tense, 3rd person singular 'señaló'.

4

Tienes que señalar a la persona correcta.

You have to point to the right person.

Use of the personal 'a' before 'la persona'.

5

Ella siempre señala los defectos de los demás.

She always points out the flaws of others.

Present tense with adverb of frequency 'siempre'.

6

Señalamos el camino para llegar al hospital.

We pointed out the way to get to the hospital.

Preterite tense, 1st person plural 'señalamos' (same as present).

7

¿Por qué señalas a ese hombre?

Why are you pointing at that man?

Present tense question. Personal 'a' used before 'ese hombre'.

8

El cartel señala la salida de emergencia.

The sign indicates the emergency exit.

Used for signs indicating direction.

1

Quiero señalar que este proyecto es muy importante.

I want to point out that this project is very important.

'Señalar que' introduces a subordinate clause stating a fact.

2

Me señaló el error con mucha amabilidad.

He pointed out the error to me very kindly.

Use of indirect object pronoun 'me' before the verb.

3

El jefe señalará los nuevos objetivos mañana.

The boss will indicate the new objectives tomorrow.

Future tense, 3rd person singular 'señalará'.

4

Es de mala educación señalar a la gente con el dedo.

It is bad manners to point at people with your finger.

Infinitive used as the subject of the sentence.

5

El artículo señala que la economía está mejorando.

The article points out that the economy is improving.

Common journalistic use to report information.

6

Si ves algo extraño, señálalo inmediatamente.

If you see something strange, point it out immediately.

Imperative with attached direct object pronoun 'lo'.

7

Estaban señalando las estrellas en el cielo nocturno.

They were pointing out the stars in the night sky.

Past continuous tense 'estaban señalando'.

8

El termómetro señala treinta grados centígrados.

The thermometer indicates thirty degrees Celsius.

Used for instruments indicating a measurement.

1

En este informe se señala la necesidad de actuar rápido.

In this report, the need to act quickly is pointed out.

Impersonal passive construction 'se señala'.

2

Como señala el autor en el segundo capítulo, el problema es complejo.

As the author points out in the second chapter, the problem is complex.

Used for academic attribution 'Como señala el autor'.

3

El juez va a señalar la fecha para la próxima audiencia.

The judge is going to set the date for the next hearing.

Legal/administrative context meaning 'to set or schedule'.

4

Es importante que el profesor señale los errores más comunes.

It is important that the teacher point out the most common mistakes.

Present subjunctive 'señale' triggered by 'Es importante que'.

5

No me gusta sentirme señalado por mis decisiones.

I don't like feeling singled out/judged for my decisions.

Past participle used as an adjective 'señalado' (singled out).

6

Los críticos señalaron la falta de originalidad de la película.

The critics pointed out the film's lack of originality.

Preterite tense used to report past critiques.

7

Cabe señalar que los resultados aún no son definitivos.

It should be noted that the results are not yet final.

Formal transition phrase 'Cabe señalar que'.

8

Señaló con precisión el lugar exacto del accidente.

He accurately pointed out the exact location of the accident.

Adverb 'con precisión' modifying the verb.

1

Resulta insoslayable señalar la dicotomía que el autor plantea.

It is unavoidable to point out the dichotomy the author presents.

Highly formal academic vocabulary 'Resulta insoslayable señalar'.

2

La ley señala los límites estrictos de esta jurisdicción.

The law establishes the strict limits of this jurisdiction.

Legal context meaning 'establishes' or 'dictates'.

3

No creo que el informe haya señalado adecuadamente las deficiencias.

I don't think the report adequately pointed out the deficiencies.

Present perfect subjunctive 'haya señalado' triggered by doubt.

4

Fue señalado como el principal instigador de la revuelta.

He was singled out as the main instigator of the revolt.

Passive voice 'Fue señalado' indicating accusation.

5

Conviene señalar las discrepancias metodológicas del estudio.

It is worth noting the methodological discrepancies of the study.

Formal impersonal structure 'Conviene señalar'.

6

Los indicadores económicos señalan una inminente recesión.

Economic indicators point to an imminent recession.

Abstract subject 'indicadores' performing the action.

7

Señalando hacia el horizonte, el capitán ordenó avanzar.

Pointing towards the horizon, the captain ordered to advance.

Gerund form 'Señalando' used to express simultaneous action.

8

Es un día señalado en el calendario histórico de la nación.

It is a marked/significant day in the historical calendar of the nation.

Adjective 'señalado' meaning significant or marked.

1

Aun a riesgo de parecer redundante, es preciso señalar este matiz.

Even at the risk of seeming redundant, it is necessary to point out this nuance.

Complex introductory clause followed by formal necessity 'es preciso señalar'.

2

De haber sabido las consecuencias, jamás lo habría señalado.

Had he known the consequences, he never would have singled him out.

Conditional perfect 'habría señalado' in a past contrary-to-fact sentence.

3

La providencia dictada señala un plazo improrrogable de cinco días.

The issued ruling sets a non-extendable period of five days.

Highly specialized legal jargon 'señala un plazo'.

4

El dedo que señala la luna no es la luna en sí misma.

The finger that points at the moon is not the moon itself.

Philosophical/proverbial use of the verb in a relative clause.

5

Su actitud altiva no hizo sino señalar su profunda inseguridad.

His haughty attitude did nothing but highlight his deep insecurity.

Structure 'no hizo sino señalar' meaning 'only served to highlight'.

6

Quedó señalado de por vida por aquel error de juventud.

He was marked for life by that youthful mistake.

Idiomatic passive 'Quedó señalado' meaning permanently stigmatized.

7

Los picos de las montañas parecían señalar un cielo amenazador.

The mountain peaks seemed to point to a threatening sky.

Poetic personification of nature using 'señalar'.

8

Señálese el día y la hora para la celebración del juicio oral.

Let the day and time be set for the holding of the oral trial.

Formal imperative passive 'Señálese' used in legal decrees.

تلازمات شائعة

señalar con el dedo
señalar un error
señalar el camino
señalar la importancia
señalar un problema
señalar la fecha
señalar un objetivo
señalar una diferencia
señalar el hecho
señalar la dirección

العبارات الشائعة

cabe señalar que
es importante señalar
señalar a alguien
señalar con precisión
señalar el inicio
señalar el fin
señalar un hito
señalar el rumbo
señalar un defecto
señalar la salida

يُخلط عادةً مع

señalar vs enseñar

señalar vs indicar

señalar vs apuntar

تعبيرات اصطلاحية

"señalar con el dedo"
"estar señalado"
"día señalado"
"señalar el blanco"
"quedar señalado"
"señalar la puerta"
"señalar con rojo"
"señalar el norte"
"señalar el paso"
"señalar con la mirada"

سهل الخلط

señalar vs

señalar vs

señalar vs

señalar vs

señalar vs

أنماط الجُمل

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كيفية الاستخدام

nuance

Can carry a negative nuance of blame when used as 'señalar a alguien' without context.

formality

Highly versatile; perfectly acceptable in both casual street slang and high-level academic writing.

أخطاء شائعة
  • Forgetting the personal 'a' when pointing at a person (e.g., saying 'señalo el hombre' instead of 'señalo al hombre').
  • Translating 'point out' literally by adding 'fuera' (e.g., 'señalar fuera el error').
  • Using 'señalar' when 'enseñar' (to show) is more appropriate.
  • Conjugating it irregularly (it is a completely regular -ar verb).
  • Using it to mean 'to aim a weapon' (which should be 'apuntar').

نصائح

Don't Forget the Personal 'A'

Always use the preposition 'a' when pointing at a person. Say 'Señalo a mi hermano', not 'Señalo mi hermano'. This is a strict rule for direct objects in Spanish. It helps clarify who is receiving the action.

No 'Fuera' Needed

Never translate 'point out' as 'señalar fuera'. The verb 'señalar' already contains the entire meaning of 'pointing out'. Adding 'fuera' makes no sense in Spanish and is a clear sign of literal translation.

Elevate Your Essays

Use 'cabe señalar que' instead of 'es importante decir que'. It sounds much more academic and sophisticated. It translates perfectly to 'it should be noted that' and is loved by Spanish teachers.

Mind Your Fingers

Avoid pointing directly at people with your index finger in Spanish-speaking countries. It is generally considered impolite. Use an open palm or a nod if you need to indicate someone's location.

Señalar vs. Indicar

While very similar, use 'señalar' when there is a physical act of pointing or a direct highlighting of a fact. Use 'indicar' for more abstract signs, like what a thermometer or a symptom shows.

Stress the Last Syllable

Because it ends in an 'r', the natural stress falls on the final syllable: se-ña-LAR. Make sure you pronounce the 'ñ' clearly, like the 'ny' in 'canyon', to avoid confusion with other sounds.

The Blame Game

The phrase 'señalar con el dedo' often means more than just physical pointing; it means to cast blame. If someone says 'No me señales con el dedo', they might mean 'Don't blame me'.

Read the News

To master this verb, read Spanish news articles. You will see 'señaló que' used constantly to report what politicians or experts have said. It is the perfect alternative to 'dijo que'.

Setting Dates

If you work in business or law, remember that 'señalar' means to schedule. 'Señalar una reunión' means to set up a meeting. This is a very specific but common professional usage.

Feeling Singled Out

Understand the emotional weight of the adjective 'señalado'. If a friend says they feel 'señalados', they feel judged or ostracized. It is a powerful word for expressing social discomfort.

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

Imagine a SENATOR (sounds like 'seña-') POINTING his finger at a map to INDICATE where to build a new road.

أصل الكلمة

From Vulgar Latin *signāre, derived from Latin signum (sign, mark).

السياق الثقافي

'Señalar con el dedo' often implies blaming someone, not just pointing.

Pointing at people is rude; use an open hand.

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

بدايات محادثة

"¿Puedes señalar en el mapa de dónde eres?"

"¿Qué error te señaló el profesor en tu último examen?"

"¿Por qué crees que es de mala educación señalar a las personas?"

"En tu opinión, ¿qué problema social deberíamos señalar más?"

"¿Te has sentido señalado alguna vez por ser diferente?"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

Describe un momento en el que alguien te señaló un error importante. ¿Cómo reaccionaste?

Escribe sobre un 'día señalado' (un día especial) en tu vida y por qué fue importante.

Imagina que eres un guía turístico. Escribe un párrafo señalando los lugares más interesantes de tu ciudad.

¿Qué diferencias culturales has notado sobre el acto de señalar con el dedo?

Redacta un breve ensayo y usa la frase 'cabe señalar que' para introducir tu argumento principal.

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

'Señalar' is a completely regular -ar verb. It follows the standard conjugation rules in all tenses and moods. There are no stem changes or spelling changes to worry about. For example, in the present tense it is yo señalo, tú señalas, etc. This makes it very easy for beginners to learn and use.

'Enseñar' generally means 'to show' or 'to teach', while 'señalar' means 'to point at'. If you hold up a picture for someone to see, you are using 'enseñar'. If you use your finger to direct their attention to a specific person in that picture, you are using 'señalar'. They are related but describe different actions.

Yes, if you are pointing at a person, you must use the personal 'a'. Because 'señalar' takes a direct object, the rule applies. You say 'señalar el coche' (point at the car) but 'señalar a la mujer' (point at the woman). Forgetting this is a very common mistake for English speakers.

You simply use the verb 'señalar'. You do not need to add a word for 'out'. For example, 'I want to point out the mistake' is 'Quiero señalar el error'. Translating 'out' literally as 'fuera' is incorrect and sounds unnatural in Spanish.

Absolutely. In fact, it is one of the most common verbs used in academic and journalistic writing. Phrases like 'cabe señalar que' (it should be noted that) or 'el autor señala que' (the author points out that) are standard, highly professional ways to introduce facts or arguments.

In formal, administrative, or legal contexts, 'señalar' means to set, schedule, or designate. So, 'señalar una fecha' means to set a date for an event, such as a meeting, a trial, or a deadline. It implies an official establishment of time.

The physical act of pointing at a person with your index finger ('señalar con el dedo') is considered rude in many Hispanic cultures, just as it is in many English-speaking ones. If you must indicate a person, it is more polite to use an open hand or a subtle head gesture. Pointing at objects is fine.

If someone feels 'señalado', it means they feel singled out, judged, or stigmatized by others. It carries a negative connotation of being the target of gossip, blame, or unwanted attention. For example, 'Después del error, se sintió señalado por sus compañeros'.

Yes, it can. Historically and sometimes currently, it means to put a mark or a sign on something to distinguish it. For example, you might 'señalar' a page in a book with a bookmark, or 'señalar' a route on a map with a pen.

If you find yourself using 'señalar' too much in an essay, excellent synonyms include 'indicar' (to indicate), 'destacar' (to highlight), 'subrayar' (to underline/emphasize), and 'mencionar' (to mention). 'Destacar' is particularly good for emphasizing important points.

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