firmar
/fiɾˈmaɾ/
The English verb to sign is translated into Spanish as firmar. If unsure, use firmar. Wiktionary also lists signar and rubricar.
Meaning: to write one's signature on a document (verb)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| firmar | /fiɾˈmaɾ/ |
| signar | /siɡˈnaɾ/ |
| rubricar | /rubɾiˈkaɾ/ |
The verb firmar is the standard and most common way to express the action of signing a document, such as a check, contract or letter.
Which one should you use?
While firmar is the everyday word for signing one's name, signar is a much rarer verb that typically means to mark, designate or seal. Rubricar is a more technical term that specifically refers to adding a rubric or a stylized flourish to a signature.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/fiɾˈmaɾ/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using signar as a direct translation for signing a document. Although it may look like the English word, English speakers mistakenly use it as a cognate, but firmar is the correct and standard verb.
Did you know?
- The verb rubricar derives from the Latin word for 'red ochre'. This is because ancient scribes used red ink to highlight the headings or rubrics of manuscripts.
- In Spain, it is common for people to use a rúbrica as a shorthand version of their signature for initialing every page of a multi-page contract.
- The verb firmar actually comes from the idea of 'making something firm'. It shares its roots with the English word 'firm', suggesting that a signature is a way to make an agreement solid.
Examples in context
- ¿Tengo que firmar algo?Do I have to sign something?This sentence is useful for asking if a signature is required using firmar.Tatoeba #2152696 by hayastan, translation #2064729 by CK
- No puedes firmar con lápiz.You can't sign with a pencil.This sentence uses firmar to specify the instrument that should not be used for signing.Tatoeba #7276573 by arh, translation #9193516 by DJ_Saidez
- Tom olvidó firmar el cheque.Tom forgot to sign the check.This sentence shows how to use firmar when discussing a forgotten signature on a check.Tatoeba #1287958 by marcelostockle, translation #1094061 by CK
- Por favor, siga la señal de salida.Please follow the exit sign.
- Vimos un cartel indicando la dirección de la playa.We saw a sign indicating the direction to the beach.
- Ese restaurante tiene un letrero muy llamativo.That restaurant has a very eye-catching sign.
- Los rótulos en este museo son muy informativos.The signs in this museum are very informative.
- Por favor, preste atención a la señal de tráfico.Please pay attention to the traffic sign.
- Voy a comprar un letrero para el negocio.I'm going to buy a sign for the business.
- No entiendo lo que dice ese cartel.I don't understand what that sign says.
- 53 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Sofía is helping Javier with some paperwork at a desk.
- Sofía¿Puedes firmar este papel, Javier?Can you sign this paper, Javier?
- JavierSí, ¿tengo que firmar al final?Yes, do I have to sign at the end?
- SofíaNo, solo debes firmar en la parte de abajo.No, you should just sign at the bottom.
- JavierEstá bien, ya voy a firmar.Okay, I am going to sign now.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “sign” translations and entries firmar, signar, rubricar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries firmar, rubricar, signar, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
