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

Part of Speech

Verb

Phonetic Transcription

/kɔm.paˈɾaɾ/

Translation Options into English

• To compare

Meaning and Usage

"Comparar" is a verb that means to examine two or more items to determine their similarities and differences. It is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, particularly in academic, analytical, and everyday conversational settings. The term is integral to discussions where evaluation, assessment, and judgment are necessary.

Example Sentences

1. Comparar los precios de estas dos tiendas es una buena idea.

2. Comparing the prices of these two stores is a good idea.

3. Es importante comparar las opciones antes de tomar una decisión.

4. It is important to compare the options before making a decision.

5. Vamos a comparar nuestros resultados con los del año pasado.

6. We are going to compare our results with those of last year.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "comparar" itself is not a key component in many idiomatic expressions, it can be part of phrases that involve comparative assessments or direct comparisons.

1. Comparar peras con manzanas.
2. To compare apples with oranges.

3. Meaning: To draw an equivalence between two unrelated or dissimilar things.

4. No se puede comparar lo incomparable.

5. One cannot compare the incomparable.

6. Meaning: Some things are so unique that they cannot be judged against each other.

7. Comparar la situación actual con la del pasado.

8. To compare the current situation with that of the past.

9. Meaning: Analyzing how circumstances have changed over time.

10. Siempre tienes que comparar las ventajas y desventajas.

11. You always have to compare the pros and cons.
12. Meaning: Evaluating both the positive and negative aspects of something.

Etymology

The word "comparar" comes from the Latin "comparare," which combines "com-" (together) and "parare" (to prepare or make equal). Thus, it retains its sense of bringing things together for the purpose of comparison.

Synonyms

• Examinar (to examine)
• Evaluar (to evaluate)
• Contrastar (to contrast)

Antonyms

• Ignorar (to ignore)
• Desigualar (to make unequal)
• Disparate (to differ)

By understanding the use and context of "comparar," one can appreciate its importance in communication, analysis, and decision-making. The verb encourages a thoughtful approach towards understanding the world through comparison.