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

Part of speech

Verb

Phonetic transcription

/θe.leˈβɾaɾ/ (in Spain) or /se.leˈβɾaɾ/ (in Latin America)

Translation options into English

• to celebrate
• to hold (an event)
• to commemorate

Meaning and Usage

In Spanish, "celebrar" is primarily used to denote the action of marking an important event or occasion with festivities or special observances. This verb is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts and is quite prevalent in everyday conversation. It is more frequently used in oral speech, especially in situations involving festivities, such as birthdays, holidays, and significant achievements.

Frequency of Use

"Celebrar" is a commonly used verb in Spanish, especially relevant during festive seasons, family gatherings, and celebratory events.

Example Sentences

1. Vamos a celebrar mi cumpleaños este sábado.
   We're going to celebrate my birthday this Saturday.

2. La comunidad se reunió para celebrar el Día de la Independencia.
   The community gathered to celebrate Independence Day.

3. Es importante celebrar los logros de cada uno.
   It's important to celebrate everyone's achievements.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Celebrar" is often found in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish, typically associated with festivities or acknowledgments.

Example Idiomatic Expressions

1. Celebrar a lo grande
   To celebrate in style/with great fanfare.
   El año pasado celebramos a lo grande el aniversario de la empresa.
   Last year we celebrated the company anniversary in style.

2. Celebrar en familia
   To celebrate with family.
   Prefiero celebrar en familia que en una gran fiesta.
   I prefer to celebrate with family rather than at a big party.

3. Celebrar por todo lo alto
   To celebrate in a big way.
   Después de recibir buenas noticias, decidimos celebrar por todo lo alto.
   After receiving good news, we decided to celebrate in a big way.

4. Celebrar la vida
   To celebrate life.
   En ocasiones difíciles, es importante celebrar la vida.
   In difficult times, it is important to celebrate life.

Etymology

The verb "celebrar" comes from the Latin word "celebrare," which means to assemble or gather for a significant occasion or event. This Latin term is derived from "celebris," meaning "frequent" or "famous."

Synonyms

• Honrar (to honor)
• Conmemorar (to commemorate)
• Festajar (to festivate)

Antonyms

• Lamentar (to mourn)
• Ignorar (to ignore)
• Despreciar (to despise)

Overall, "celebrar" is a key term in the Spanish language that conveys a sense of joy and significance associated with various occasions and events.