vs
QUICK ANSWER
"Ultimar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to finalize", and "finalizar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to finish". Learn more about the difference between "ultimar" and "finalizar" below.
ultimar(
ool
-
tee
-
mahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
a. to finalize
Los arquitectos están ultimando los detalles del proyecto de refacción.The architects are finalizing the details for the refurbishment project.
b. to finalise (United Kingdom)
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
Solo queda un mes para ultimar los preparativos del congreso que este año se celebrará en Lima.There's only a month left to finalise the preparations for the conference which this year will be held in Lima.
c. to complete
Ya ultimamos los preparativos para el desfile.We've completed the arrangements for the parade.
d. to put the final touches to
Los actores están ultimando los detalles para la función de esta noche.The actors are putting the final touches to tonight's performance.
e. to put the finishing touches to
La compositora alemana está ultimando su nuevo disco.The German composer is putting the finishing touches to her new album.
2. (to slay) (Latin America)
Regionalism used in Latin America: all the countries in South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Does not include Spain.
finalizar(
fee
-
nah
-
lee
-
sahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
a. to finish
Tardé casi dos años en finalizar mi tesis.It took me almost two years to finish my thesis.
b. to complete
El atleta finalizó el maratón en menos de dos horas y cinco minutos.The athlete completed the marathon in under two hours and five minutes.
An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
b. to come to an end
Las negociaciones finalizaron sin que se llegara a un acuerdo.Negotiations came to an end without an agreement.
c. to finish
Los obreros terminarán de construir la casa antes de que finalice el año.The construction workers will build the house before the year finishes.
