convertirse en
/kombeɾtiɾse en/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'becoming' can be translated into Spanish as convertirse en.
convertirse en is used to describe the process of changing into something else or developing into a particular role.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the reflexive verb convertirse (to turn oneself) and the preposition en (into).
Which one should you use?
While convertirse en often implies a transformation or a change in nature, the expression llegar a ser is used to emphasize the gradual process of reaching a certain status or position through effort.
How does it change in a sentence?
When using this phrase, the preposition en is mandatory to indicate the state or role being entered.
How do you pronounce it?
/kombeɾtiɾse en/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly omit the preposition en after the verb, but it is required in Spanish.
Did you know?
- If a person's behavior is described as 'becoming' (appropriate), a Spaniard might say it is adecuado, rather than using any form of 'become'.
- The verb convertirse is the same word used in Spanish to describe the religious act of changing one's faith.
- Spanish speakers avoid using convertirse en for temporary states, such as becoming tired or angry, preferring the verb ponerse.
Examples in context
- Él sueña en convertirse en un astronauta.He is dreaming of becoming an astronaut.This sentence is useful for showing how to use convertirse en with a profession.Tatoeba #1346648 by marcelostockle, translation #293862 by CK
- Ella soñó con convertirse en una enfermera.She dreamed of becoming a nurse.This sentence shows how to express a dream about a future role using convertirse en.Tatoeba #1707820 by teskmon, translation #1559839 by CM
- Él cumplió su sueño de convertirse en un artista.He realized his dream of becoming an artist.This sentence demonstrates the use of convertirse en when discussing the realization of a dream.Tatoeba #1365997 by marcelostockle, translation #295765 by CM
- Ella se está convirtiendo en doctora.She is becoming a doctor.
- La oruga se transforma en mariposa.The caterpillar becomes a butterfly.
- El gusano se transforma en mariposa.The caterpillar becomes a butterfly.
- Ella se está poniendo nerviosa antes del examen.She's becoming nervous before the exam.
- Él se está haciendo escritor.He is becoming a writer.
- Se volvió rica.She became rich.
- Al final, se volvió un hombre exitoso.In the end, he became a successful man.
- Quiero hacerme maestro.I want to become a teacher.
- Me hice vegetariano por razones éticas.I became a vegetarian for ethical reasons.
- Él se está convirtiendo en un músico reconocido.He is becoming a renowned musician.
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucía and Alejandro are talking about a character in a book.
- Lucía¿Crees que el villano puede convertirse en un héroe?Do you think the villain can become a hero?
- AlejandroEs difícil que se convierta en alguien bueno.It is difficult for him to become someone good.
- LucíaPero la historia está cambiando mucho.But the story is changing a lot.
- AlejandroTienes razón, la trama es muy interesante.You are right, the plot is very interesting.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
