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"Ultimar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to finalize", and "terminar" is an intransitive verb which is often translated as "to end". Learn more about the difference between "ultimar" and "terminar" below.
ultimar(
ool
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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.
terminar(
tehr
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mee
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nahr
)An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
a. to break up with
Terminó con su novia porque necesitaba espacio.He broke up with his girlfriend because he needed space.
A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
b. to be done with
¿A qué hora crees que terminarás la traducción?What time do you think you'll be done with the translation?
4. (to result)
a. to end up (used with "-ing")
¿Sabías que Sandy y Jake terminaron casándose?Did you know Sandy and Jake ended up getting married?
terminarse
A pronominal verb always uses a reflexive pronoun. (e.g., Te ves cansado.).
a. to run out
Espero que lleguemos a nuestro destino antes de que al coche se le termine la gasolina.I hope we get to where we're going before the car runs out of gas.
