ablandarse (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

"ablandarse" is a verb.

Phonetic Transcription

/ablaɲˈdaɾ.se/

Translation Options into English

• to soften
• to become soft
• to relent

Meaning and Use

The verb "ablandarse" means to become softer or to make something softer. In a figurative sense, it often refers to a person becoming more yielding or less strict in their attitude or behavior. In the Spanish language, it can be used in both oral and written contexts, but it is more commonly found in spoken language, especially in informal conversations and discussions.

Example Sentences

1. Los frijoles necesitan ablandarse antes de cocinarlos.
   (The beans need to soften before cooking them.)

2. A veces es bueno ablandarse un poco y escuchar a los demás.
   (Sometimes it is good to relent a little and listen to others.)

3. El perder el partido lo hizo ablandarse y reconocer sus errores.
   (Losing the match made him soften and acknowledge his mistakes.)

Idiomatic Expressions

While "ablandarse" itself may not feature prominently in many fixed idiomatic expressions, it can still be found in various colloquial uses that convey the idea of being more lenient or yielding.

Example Idiomatic Sentences

1. Con el tiempo, se ablandó y decidió perdonar a su amiga.
   (Over time, he softened and decided to forgive his friend.)

2. El clima en la reunión se ablandó después de que llegó el mediador.
   (The atmosphere in the meeting softened after the mediator arrived.)

3. No te ablandes ante las críticas; mantén tu postura firme.
   (Don’t relent in the face of criticism; stay firm in your position.)

4. Al hablar con él, noté que se ablanda fácilmente cuando mencionas sus hijos.
   (When talking to him, I noticed he softens easily when you mention his children.)

Etymology

The verb "ablandarse" comes from the Spanish prefix "a-" indicating movement toward a state, combined with the root "blando," which means soft. The original Latin word is "mollis," which also denotes softness and flexibility.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - suavizarse (to soften) - flexibilizarse (to become flexible) - ceder (to yield)

Antonyms: - endurecerse (to harden) - volver firme (to become firm) - obstinarse (to obstinately hold on)

This comprehensive overview of "ablandarse" provides insights into its meanings, uses, and idiomatic applications in the Spanish language.