Verbo (verb)
/klaˈβaɾ.se/
"Clavarse" refers to the action of penetrating or getting stuck into something. It can be used literally (like getting a splinter or nail stuck in one's skin) or metaphorically (like becoming engrossed in a situation or absorbing knowledge deeply). It is a colloquial term used frequently in oral conversations. In written contexts, it often appears in informal communication. Its frequency of use can be considered moderate in everyday Spanish.
Me clavé un clavo en el dedo.
(I nailed myself a nail in the finger.)
Siempre me clavo horas estudiando en lugar de descansar.
(I always get stuck studying for hours instead of resting.)
"Clavarse" is often used in various idiomatic expressions that indicate a sense of fixation or engrossment in a particular situation.
Se clavó en la tarea y olvidó salir a jugar.
(He got stuck in the homework and forgot to go out and play.)
Clavarse un objetivo.
(To set oneself on a goal.)
Me clavé el objetivo de correr una maratón este año.
(I set myself the goal of running a marathon this year.)
Clavarse en la lectura.
(To get lost in reading.)
Me clavé en la lectura y perdí la noción del tiempo.
(I got lost in reading and lost track of time.)
Clavarse con una idea.
(To get fixated on an idea.)
The verb "clavarse" comes from the root "clavar," which means "to nail" or "to drive in." The prefix "se" indicates a reflexive form, suggesting that the action is being done to oneself. This reflexive usage adds a layer to the meaning, implicating personal involvement in the action.
Synonyms - Insertarse (to insert oneself) - Penetrar (to penetrate) - Stancarse (to get stuck)
Antonyms - Sacar (to remove) - Desclavar (to un-nail) - Liberarse (to free oneself)