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

Part of Speech

Verb

Phonetic Transcription

/koreˈte.aɾ/

Translation Options into English

• to run around
• to scamper
• to move quickly

Meaning and Usage

The word "corretear" is a colloquial verb mainly used in Chile and Central America. It refers to the action of running around or scampering in a playful or hurried manner. The term conveys a sense of lightness and quick movement, often associated with children or playful animals. "Correteando" (the gerund form) is also commonly used to describe someone who is engaged in such activities.

The frequency of use is relatively common in oral speech rather than in written contexts, as it conveys a casual, everyday action.

Example Sentences

1. Los niños estaban correteando en el parque.
   (The children were running around in the park.)

2. No puedo concentrarme, esos perros están correteando por toda la casa.
   (I can't concentrate; those dogs are running around all over the house.)

3. A veces me gusta corretear por la playa cuando no hay mucha gente.
   (Sometimes I like to run around on the beach when there aren't many people.)

Idiomatic Expressions

Though "corretear" is not as widespread in idiomatic expressions, it often appears in contexts reflecting play or hastiness.

Example Idiomatic Sentences

1. Después de corretear por toda la ciudad, finalmente encontramos el restaurante.
   (After running around the entire city, we finally found the restaurant.)

2. Durante el cumpleaños, los niños estaban todo el tiempo correteando de aquí para allá.
   (During the birthday party, the kids were running around here and there the whole time.)

3. No quiero seguir correteando detrás de las oportunidades, prefiero ser paciente.
   (I don't want to keep running around after opportunities; I prefer to be patient.)

4. Aunque estaba cansada, no dejé de corretear para no perder el ritmo de la fiesta.
   (Although I was tired, I didn't stop running around to keep up with the rhythm of the party.)

Etymology

The term "corretear" is derived from the Spanish verb "correr" which means "to run," combined with the diminutive suffix "-ear," indicating a light or playful version of the action.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Jugar (to play)
• Saltar (to jump)
• Moverse rápidamente (to move quickly)

Antonyms

• Estar quieto (to be still)
• Permanecer (to remain)

In conclusion, "corretear" encapsulates an energetic and playful form of movement, predominantly used in casual conversations, especially among children and in leisurely settings. Its versatility in usage makes it a vivid addition to colloquial Spanish, particularly in Chile and Central America.