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

Part of Speech

Verb (transitive)

Phonetic Transcription

/desmenˈtiɾ/

Translation Options into English

• To deny
• To refute
• To disprove

Meaning and Usage

"Desmentir" is a verb utilized primarily in the context of denying the truth of a statement or claim. It suggests that something previously claimed is untrue or false, often with a sense of contradiction to established information. The word is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, particularly in legal discussions, media communications, debate, and everyday conversation.

It is moderately common in usage, particularly relevant in discussions involving rumors, allegations, or articulating one's position against falsehoods.

Examples in Sentences

1. Ella decidió desmentir los rumores sobre su vida personal.

2. She decided to deny the rumors about her personal life.

3. El acusado trató de desmentir las acusaciones en su contra.

4. The accused tried to refute the accusations against him.

5. El portavoz de la compañía desmintió la noticia falsa publicada en internet.

6. The company spokesperson disproved the false news published online.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "desmentir" is not often part of fixed idiomatic expressions, it frequently appears in phrases or common usages related to denial or contradiction.

Example Idiomatic Expressions

1. Desmentir rumores
2. To deny rumors
3. La actriz tuvo que desmentir rumores de su retiro.

4. The actress had to deny rumors of her retirement.

5. Desmentir públicamente

6. To publicly refute
7. El ministro desmintió públicamente las acusaciones de corrupción.

8. The minister publicly refuted the corruption allegations.

9. Desmentir a alguien

10. To deny someone (or someone's claims)
11. El testigo desmintió a los acusadores durante el juicio.
12. The witness denied the accusers during the trial.

Etymology

The word "desmentir" originates from the Spanish prefix "des-" indicating negation, and "mentir," meaning "to lie" (from Latin mentīre). Thus, "desmentir" literally translates to "to unlie" or "to contradict a lie".

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Negar (to deny) - Refutar (to refute) - Contradecir (to contradict)

Antonyms: - Aceptar (to accept) - Confirmar (to confirm) - Admitir (to admit)