"Embargar" is a verb primarily used to describe the act of seizing goods or property, often as a legal measure to satisfy a debt or obligation. In legal and economic contexts, it typically involves the official seizure of a person's assets or funds. The term is commonly used in both written and oral forms of Spanish, especially in legal documents, news articles, and everyday conversations about financial matters. The frequency of use is relatively high due to its relevance in economic and legal discussions.
The judge decided to seize the debtor's assets.
Si no pagas la multa, pueden embargar tu cuenta bancaria.
If you do not pay the fine, they may embargo your bank account.
El gobierno decidió embargar los activos de la empresa por evasión de impuestos.
"Embargar" is sometimes used in idiomatic expressions, particularly in financial and legal contexts. Some common expressions include:
(They seized the businessman’s account after he did not pay his debts.)
Embargar bienes
(The court decided to seize assets during the investigation.)
Embargar un salario
(The bank can seize part of your salary if you don’t pay your loan.)
A punto de embargar
The verb "embargar" originates from the late Latin word "imbarricare," which means to inhibit or to hinder. The prefix "em-" is derived from Latin "in-" meaning "into," while "bargar" is believed to connect to concepts of "seeing" or "taking" —thus forming a notion of taking something away or blocking access to it.
Synonyms: - Secuestrar (to sequester) - Apoderarse (to take over) - Retener (to hold back)
Antonyms: - Liberar (to free) - Dejar (to let go) - Entregar (to deliver)
This comprehensive overview clarifies the use of "embargar" across different contexts in Spanish, highlighting its significance in both legal and economic realms.