verb

avisar

inform · notify · let know · warn

Comunicar a alguien sobre algo que va a pasar o que debe saber.

Definition & meaning

The verb avisar primarily means to inform, notify, or let someone know about something. It is used to communicate information, give a warning, or alert someone to an upcoming event or situation.

There are two main nuances to its use:

To notify or inform: To communicate a piece of news or a fact to someone. (e.g., "I will let you know when I arrive.")
To warn or alert: To advise someone of a potential danger, a problem, or an obligation, allowing them to prepare or prevent a negative outcome. (e.g., "The alarm warned us of the fire.")

Grammar & Word origin

Avisar is a regular first-conjugation verb (-ar).

Etymologically, it comes from the noun {aviso} , which derives from the Vulgar Latin advīsum, meaning "opinion" or "view." The prefix ad- (to) combined with visus (sight/seen) reflects the literal sense of "making someone see" or "bringing something to someone's attention."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

{notificar} : To formally notify.
{informar} : To give information.
{advertir} : To warn or caution someone.
{comunicar} : To communicate or convey news.
{prevenir} : To prevent or prepare someone for something.

Antonyms:

{ocultar} : To hide information.
{callar} : To keep silent or withhold information.
{ignorar} : To ignore (in the sense of failing to notify or keeping someone in the dark).