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

Part of Speech

Verb

Phonetic Transcription

/ekˈser/

Translation Options into English

• To exercise
• To perform
• To practice

Meaning and Usage

The verb ejercer is commonly used in Spanish to refer to the act of exercising power, authority, a profession, or some kind of activity. It has a broad application in various contexts such as law, economics, and general usage. It is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, depending on the subject matter being discussed, but it tends to be more prevalent in formal or written settings, especially in legal and academic language.

Example Sentences

1. Ella desea ejercer su derecho al voto en las próximas elecciones.
   (She wishes to exercise her right to vote in the upcoming elections.)

2. El abogado decidió ejercer su profesión en la nueva firma.
   (The lawyer decided to practice his profession at the new firm.)

3. Es importante ejercer el autocontrol en situaciones difíciles.
   (It is important to exercise self-control in difficult situations.)

Idiomatic Expressions

The verb ejercer is frequently involved in various idiomatic expressions within the Spanish language. Here are notable examples:

1. Ejercer influencia
   (To exert influence)

2. Ella sabe cómo ejercer influencia en sus colegas.
   (She knows how to exert influence over her colleagues.)

3. Ejercer la autoridad
   (To exercise authority)

4. El jefe necesita ejercer la autoridad para mantener el orden.
   (The boss needs to exercise authority to maintain order.)

5. Ejercer una profesión
   (To practice a profession)

6. Después de graduarse, planea ejercer una profesión en medicina.
   (After graduating, he plans to practice a profession in medicine.)

7. Ejercer presión
   (To exert pressure)

8. Los activistas intentaron ejercer presión sobre el gobierno para cambiar la ley.
   (Activists tried to exert pressure on the government to change the law.)

Etymology

The word ejercer originates from the Latin word exercere, which means "to keep busy, to occupy." This root reflects the concept of engaging in activity, particularly in a professional or authoritative context.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Realizar (to perform) - Practicar (to practice) - Desempeñar (to carry out)

Antonyms: - Abstenerse (to abstain) - Descansar (to rest) - Desistir (to desist)

In conclusion, the verb ejercer is integral in various contexts, especially in legal and professional settings, and it has a rich usage in idiomatic expressions that convey the act of exercising control or authority.