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

Part of Speech

The word "avasallar" is a verb.

Phonetic Transcription

The phonetic transcription in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /a.βa.saˈlar/.

Translation Options into English

• To subjugate
• To oppress
• To crush

Meaning and Usage

"Avasallar" means to impose dominance or authority over someone or something, effectively reducing them to a state of submission. It is often used in contexts involving power dynamics, oppression, or conquest. The term conveys a strong sense of control and can be applied both to people and ideas. In terms of frequency of use, "avasallar" is more commonly used in written contexts, particularly in literature, political discussions, or historical narratives.

Example Sentences

1. La dictadura busca avasallar a su pueblo mediante el miedo.
   The dictatorship seeks to subjugate its people through fear.

2. Su objetivo era avasallar a todos los opositores en la elección.
   His goal was to crush all the opponents in the election.

3. No debemos permitir que ningún sistema nos avasalle.
   We must not allow any system to oppress us.

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "avasallar" is not frequently used in idiomatic expressions as a standalone term, but it is relevant in contexts emphasizing oppression or dominance. Below are example sentences that incorporate it indirectly related to broader themes:

1. La presión social puede avasallar a cualquiera.
   Social pressure can crush anyone.

2. No es justo avasallar a los más vulnerables en la sociedad.
   It is not fair to subjugate the most vulnerable in society.

3. Su ambición desmedida lo llevó a avasallar a todos a su paso.
   His insatiable ambition led him to oppress everyone in his path.

4. En muchas culturas, el deseo de poder puede avasallar la moralidad.
   In many cultures, the desire for power can overpower morality.

5. Las grandes corporaciones a veces pueden avasallar a los pequeños negocios.
   Large corporations can sometimes crush small businesses.

Etymology

The word "avasallar" comes from the Latin "vassallus," meaning vassal, which refers to a person who held land under the feudal system in exchange for service to a lord. The prefix "a-" often indicates the action of making or causing, adding a layer of intent to the original term.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Someter (to subjugate) - Oprimir (to oppress) - Dominio (to dominate)

Antonyms: - Liberar (to free) - Empoderar (to empower) - Respetar (to respect)