conseguir
Lemma Details
Translation: to get; to obtain; to achieve; to accomplish; to manage; to succeed in
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: Derived from Latin 'consequi', which combines 'con-' (with, together) and 'sequi' (to follow). The English cognate is 'consequent'. The evolution shows how 'following through' on something leads to obtaining or achieving a result. Unlike the English 'consequence' which focuses on what follows an action, 'conseguir' emphasizes the successful attainment of a goal after effort.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Por fin conseguí el trabajo que quería.
I finally got the job I wanted.
¿Conseguiste hablar con el director?
Did you manage to speak with the director?
Con esfuerzo conseguirás tus metas.
With effort, you will achieve your goals.
No consiguieron terminar el proyecto a tiempo.
They didn't manage to finish the project on time.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'con' (with) + 'seguir' (to follow) = 'to follow through' until you get what you want.
- Sounds like 'consequence' - when you 'conseguir' something, it's the consequence of your efforts.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'conseguir' is often used in contexts of personal achievement and overcoming obstacles. It carries a positive connotation of success through effort, particularly in educational and professional contexts.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'conseguir' means 'to obtain' or 'to achieve', 'seguir' means 'to follow' or 'to continue'. They share the root 'sequi' (to follow) but have different meanings in modern Spanish.
This word:
Conseguí una beca para estudiar en el extranjero.
I obtained a scholarship to study abroad.
Notes: The prefix 'con-' transforms the meaning from simply 'following' to 'obtaining as a result'.
Mnemonic: 'Con-seguir' adds accomplishment to following - you follow through to get something; 'seguir' is just following without necessarily obtaining.
Explanation: 'Conseguir' means to obtain or achieve, while 'consentir' means to consent, allow, or spoil (as with children).
Confused word:
Los padres consienten demasiado a sus hijos.
The parents spoil their children too much.
Notes: Both begin with 'con-' but have completely different meanings and uses.
Mnemonic: 'Consentir' has 'sent' in it, like 'consent' - giving permission; 'conseguir' has 'seg' like 'seguir' (follow) - following through to get something.