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

Part of Speech

The word desahogar is a verb.

Phonetic Transcription

/ˌdesaˈoɣaɾ/

Translation Options into English

1. To drain
2. To relieve
3. To vent
4. To unload

Meaning and Usage

Desahogar is used in both general and technical contexts. In general usage, it means to relieve oneself of emotions or feelings, often through conversation or expression. In technical contexts, it can refer to draining a liquid from a container or system.

The term is fairly common in spoken Spanish but can also be found in written contexts, especially in emotional or psychological discussions.

Example Sentences

1. Es importante desahogar las emociones para mantener una buena salud mental.

2. It is important to vent emotions to maintain good mental health.

3. Después de hablar con su amigo, se sintió desahogada.

4. After talking with her friend, she felt relieved.

5. Hay que desahogar el río para evitar inundaciones.

6. We must drain the river to prevent flooding.

Idiomatic Expressions Involving "Desahogar"

While desahogar does not have a wealth of widely recognized idiomatic expressions, it is often used in phrases related to emotional release or drainage. Below are some relevant examples:

1. Desahogar el alma
2. Después de hablar con su terapeuta, realmente sentí que desahogué el alma.

3. After talking to my therapist, I really felt like I vented my soul.

4. Desahogarse con alguien

5. Me gusta desahogarme con mi hermano porque siempre me escucha.

6. I like to vent with my brother because he always listens to me.

7. No se puede desahogar a alguien si no quiere hablar

8. No se puede desahogar a alguien si no quiere hablar de sus problemas.
9. You can't help someone vent if they don't want to talk about their problems.

Etymology

The word desahogar comes from the prefix des-, which means "to undo" or "to remove," and ahogar, which means "to drown" or "to suffocate." Thus, etymologically, it suggests the act of removing or relieving oneself from drowning in emotions or feelings.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Liberar (to liberate) - Ventilar (to ventilate) - Aliviar (to alleviate)

Antonyms: - Ahogar (to drown, suffocate) - Oprimir (to oppress) - Atraparse (to get stuck)

In summary, desahogar is a versatile term in Spanish that conveys both emotional and physical release, and it can be used in a variety of contexts to describe relieving pressure or expressing feelings.