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

Part of Speech

The word "centrar" is a verb in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

The phonetic transcription of "centrar" in the International Phonetic Alphabet is /senˈtɾaɾ/.

Translation Options into English

The primary translations of "centrar" into English are: - To center - To focus - To concentrate

Meaning and Usage

In Spanish, "centrar" generally means to place something in the center or to focus on something. The word is commonly used across various contexts, including everyday conversation, technical language, and even military terminology. Its usage frequency is moderate; it is often seen in both oral speech and written contexts, making it a versatile term.

Example Sentences

1. Centrar la atención en los detalles es crucial para el éxito del proyecto.

2. To center attention on the details is crucial for the success of the project.

3. El diseñador necesita centrar la imagen en la página.

4. The designer needs to center the image on the page.

5. Es importante centrar nuestras dudas antes de la reunión.

6. It’s important to focus our doubts before the meeting.

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "centrar" appears in several idiomatic expressions that highlight its importance in the Spanish language. Here are a few:

1. Centrar el tiro - to focus the shot.
2. Necesitamos centrar el tiro si queremos acertar en el objetivo.

3. We need to focus the shot if we want to hit the target.

4. Centrar la discusión - to focus the discussion.

5. Es esencial centrar la discusión en los problemas más urgentes.

6. It is essential to focus the discussion on the most urgent issues.

7. Centrar fuerzas - to gather strength.

8. Debemos centrar fuerzas para enfrentar el desafío juntos.

9. We must gather strength to face the challenge together.

10. Centrarse en lo importante - to focus on what’s important.

11. A veces hay que centrarse en lo importante y dejar de lado lo trivial.
12. Sometimes you have to focus on what’s important and leave aside the trivial.

Etymology

The word "centrar" originates from the Latin word "centrāre," which means "to center." The root of this term is "centrum," meaning center, which directly reflects its meaning and usage in the Spanish language today.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Enfocar (to focus) - Concentrar (to concentrate) - Dirigir (to direct)

Antonyms: - Descentralizar (to decentralize) - Dispersar (to disperse)

This comprehensive overview of "centrar" provides insight into its use and significance in the Spanish language.