"Abatir" is a verb.
/ a.βa.ˈtiɾ /
The verb "abatir" generally means to lower, bring down, or knock down something. It can refer to various contexts, such as physically bringing something down, reducing levels (like sound or prices), or metaphorically overpowering someone (like knocking down an argument).
"Abatir" has a medium frequency of use in both oral and written contexts. However, it tends to appear more in written texts, especially in technical or formal discussions, including areas like law, architecture, and certain types of narratives.
Los vientos fuertes pueden abatir los árboles en el bosque.
(Strong winds can knock down the trees in the forest.)
El nuevo impuesto ha abatido las ventas de automóviles.
(The new tax has lowered car sales.)
El ejército logró abatir al enemigo tras un largo enfrentamiento.
(The army managed to bring down the enemy after a long confrontation.)
The verb "abatir" is often used in several idiomatic expressions in Spanish. Here are a few:
Es importante no abatir la guardia durante el examen final.
(It's important not to lower your guard during the final exam.)
Abatido por la tristeza
Después de la noticia, se sintió abatido por la tristeza.
(After the news, he felt overwhelmed by sadness.)
Abatir el ánimo
No dejes que las críticas abatir el ánimo, sigue adelante.
(Don't let the criticism bring down your spirits, keep moving forward.)
Abatir a alguien con argumentos
En la discusión, logró abatir a todos con argumentos convincentes.
(In the discussion, he managed to bring everyone down with convincing arguments.)
Abatir el costo
The verb "abatir" comes from the Latin word "abattuere", which is a combination of "ad-" (to) and "battuo" (to beat). This origin emphasizes the action of striking down or bringing something lower.