Verb
/ a.ˈθeɾ.kaɾ.se /
"Acercarse" is a reflexive verb in Spanish that conveys the action of drawing near to something or someone physically, emotionally, or metaphorically. It is commonly used in both spoken and written Spanish, with a tendency toward oral usage in everyday conversations. The frequency of use is moderate to high, especially in contexts involving relationships, social interactions, or geographical references.
Me acerqué a la base militar para obtener más información.
I approached the military base to gather more information.
Los soldados se acercaron al enemigo con cautela.
The soldiers approached the enemy cautiously.
Voy a acercarme a la ventana para ver qué está pasando.
I am going to get close to the window to see what is happening.
"Acercarse" is frequently included in idiomatic expressions that convey various meanings depending on the context. Here are some examples:
Acercarse a la verdad
To come close to the truth.
El investigador se está acercando a la verdad del caso.
The investigator is getting closer to the truth of the case.
Acercarse a alguien
To approach someone, often in a social context.
Decidí acercarme a ella en la fiesta para iniciar una conversación.
I decided to approach her at the party to start a conversation.
Acercarse con cuidado
To approach cautiously.
El gato se acercó con cuidado al ratón.
The cat approached the mouse cautiously.
The term "acercarse" comes from the combination of the prefix "a-" (meaning "to" or "toward") and the verb "cercar," which derives from the Latin "circare," meaning "to encircle." Therefore, the essence of the word implies the action of moving closer or toward a point of interest.
Synonyms: - Aproximarse - Acercar (non-reflexive form) - Converger
Antonyms: - Alejarse (to distance oneself) - Retirarse (to retreat) - Desplazarse lejos (to move away)