Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| llegar/pasar a ser | |
| devenir | /debeˈniɾ/ |
| quedar | /keˈdaɾ/ |
The way you say 'to become' depends on whether you are describing a sudden change, a long process or a physical state. For example, if you want to describe the process of reaching a certain standing or position, you use llegar a ser. To express a significant change that occurs over time, you can use convertirse en.
Which one should you use?
There are distinct nuances between the available forms. Use llegar a ser to describe a process of becoming something through effort or time, like becoming a professional. In contrast, quedar is used to describe becoming a certain state or condition, especially one that is physical or unintended, such as becoming bald. While devenir also means 'to become', it is rarely used in everyday speech.
How does it change in a sentence?
When using quedar to mean 'to become' a certain state, it is very common to use the reflexive form quedarse.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Si continuas con esa postura, vas a quedar jorobada.If you keep using that posture, you'll become a hunchback.This sentence shows the use of quedar regarding a physical posture.Tatoeba #1277809 by hayastan, translation #7917655 by fpp
- Tom está bastante seguro de no poder quedarse embarazado.Tom is pretty sure that he can't become pregnant.This sentence uses quedar to describe a physical state.Tatoeba #1187217 by Shishir, translation #1024896 by CK
- No quiere quedarse calvo como su padre.He doesn't want to become bald like his father.This sentence demonstrates using quedar to describe a physical state.Tatoeba #10224641 by carlosalberto, translation #10224636 by carlosalberto
- Se ha hecho médico especializado en pediatría.He has become a specialized pediatrician
- Lucharé por convertirme en un buen líder.I will strive to become a good leader
- Llegó a ser un reconocido científico.He became a renowned scientist
- Mi hermana se ha vuelto más valiente últimamente.My sister has become braver lately
- Mi amigo se ha puesto triste después de la ruptura.My friend has become sad after the breakup
- Nos hemos quedado sin trabajo.We have become unemployed
Sources
- Wiktionary, “become” translations and entries devenir, quedar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, devenir, quedar, ser, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
