Spanish Verbs of Change: How to Say “Become” the Right Way

In English, we say “to become” for almost everything. But in Spanish, there are several verbs to express change, and each one has a specific use depending on how the change happens—whether it’s fast, slow, emotional, planned, or dramatic.

Here’s a guide to help you use them correctly.

Volverse

This verb is used for sudden, involuntary changes, especially in personality or attitude. The change is often intense and can feel permanent.

Example: Se volvió muy arrogante después del ascenso.

Example: Con el tiempo, se volvió más reservado.

Hacerse

Use hacerse when the change is gradual and involves intention or effort. It’s often used for professions, ideologies, religions, or changes related to age.

Example: Me hice médico.

Example: Se hizo budista después de un viaje a la India.

Example: Te estás haciendo mayor.

Ponerse

Ponerse describes temporary physical or emotional changes. It’s often used for moods, health conditions, or colors.

Example: Me puse nervioso antes del examen.

Example: Se puso rojo de vergüenza.

Example: Te pusiste muy contento con la noticia.

Convertirse en

This verb is used for complete or dramatic transformations. It often implies turning into something entirely different and is followed by a noun.

Example: La oruga se convirtió en mariposa.

Example: Esa discusión se convirtió en una pelea.

Example: Se convirtió en un referente en su campo.

Llegar a ser

Use llegar a ser for changes that happen after a long process and significant effort. It’s often used to talk about achievements or high-status roles.

Example: Después de muchos años de trabajo, llegó a ser presidente.

Example: Llegó a ser una gran artista.

In short, Spanish gives us more precise ways to talk about change. Instead of using one generic verb, you can describe not just what someone became, but how it happened. This makes your Spanish sound more natural and expressive. Try using these verbs in your conversations and writing—you’ll notice the difference.