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

Part of Speech

• Verb

Phonetic Transcription

• /kombinaɾ/

Translation Options into English

• To combine
• To mix
• To merge
• To unite

Meaning and Usage

In Spanish, the verb "combinar" refers to the action of joining two or more elements together to form a single unit or to create a harmonious mixture. It can be utilized in various contexts, including combining colors in fashion, ingredients in cooking, or ideas in discussions. The word is quite common in both oral and written contexts but tends to be used more frequently in written form, particularly in formal writing or instructional content.

Example Sentences

1. "Es importante combinar los colores adecuados para obtener un resultado armonioso."

2. "It is important to combine the right colors to achieve a harmonious result."

3. "Debemos combinar nuestros esfuerzos para lograr este proyecto."

4. "We must combine our efforts to achieve this project."

5. "Voy a combinar las dos recetas para hacer una nueva."

6. "I will combine the two recipes to make a new one."

Idiomatic Expressions

The verb "combinar" is frequently used in various idiomatic expressions, showcasing its versatility in Spanish:

1. "Combinar lo útil con lo agradable"
2. Translation: "To combine the useful with the pleasant."

3. Example: "En este curso, la profesora intenta combinar lo útil con lo agradable para que todos aprendan mejor."

   • "In this course, the teacher tries to combine the useful with the pleasant so everyone learns better."

4. "Combinar una cosa con otra"

5. Translation: "To combine one thing with another."

6. Example: "Es difícil combinar la vida profesional con la vida personal."

   • "It is difficult to combine professional life with personal life."

7. "Combinar aptitudes"

8. Translation: "To combine skills."

9. Example: "El trabajo en equipo nos permite combinar aptitudes y lograr mejores resultados."

   • "Teamwork allows us to combine skills and achieve better results."

10. "No combinar bien"

11. Translation: "Not to combine well."
12. Example: "Es evidente que esos sabores no combinan bien en un plato."
    • "It is evident that those flavors do not combine well in a dish."

Etymology

The verb "combinar" comes from the Latin "combinare," which is formed by the prefix "com-" meaning "together" and "binare," related to the word "bina," meaning "pair." This reflects the essential idea of bringing together different elements.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms:
• Integrar (to integrate)
• Mezclar (to mix)

• Unir (to unite)

• Antonyms:

• Separar (to separate)
• Dividir (to divide)
• Descomponer (to disassemble)

In summary, "combinar" is a versatile verb in Spanish that finds utility in various contexts. Whether in culinary arts, fashion, or broader discussions, understanding its use and related expressions can enhance both speaking and writing in Spanish.