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"Informar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to inform", and "avisar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to warn". Learn more about the difference between "informar" and "avisar" below.
informar(
eem
-
fohr
-
mahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
a. no direct translation
This refers to an idiomatic word or phrase for which there is no word-for-word translation.
La disciplina y el honor informan su naturaleza como soldado.He is a soldier who believes in discipline and honor.
Su silueta informa su belleza.Her silhouette hints at her beauty.
An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
a. to report
Se enviaron periodistas a la zona de conflicto para que informen sobre la situación.Journalists were sent to the war zone to report on the situation.
informarse
A pronominal verb always uses a reflexive pronoun. (e.g., Te ves cansado.).
4. (to inquire)
a. to get information
Se informó sobre los peligros de la caminata antes de registrarse.He got information about the dangers of the hike before signing up.
b. to find out
¿Pudiste informarte sobre lo que necesitas antes de viajar a Cuba?Were you able to find out about what you needed before traveling to Cuba?
avisar(
ah
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bee
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sahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
1. (to inform)
a. to let know
Mi fiesta de cumpleaños es el sábado que viene. ¡Avísame si vas a venir!My birthday party is next Saturday. Let me know if you're coming!
b. to tell
Asegúrate de avisar al médico acerca de los medicamentos que tomas.Be sure to tell the doctor about the medications you're taking.
c. to notify
Hay que avisar al gobierno local antes de abrir un negocio.You must notify the local government before opening a business.
2. (to alert)
a. to warn
La sirena sonó para avisarles a todos que venía un tornado.The siren sounded to warn everyone that a tornado was coming.
a. to call
Hay que avisar a la escuela de que van a llegar tarde.We need to call the school to let them know they'll be late.
