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

Part of Speech

Espolear is a verb in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

/ph.o.leˈaɾ/

Translation Options into English

• To spur
• To urge on
• To incite

Meaning and Usage

Espolear refers to the action of urging onward or spurring, often used in the context of encouraging someone or something to move faster or take action. It originally comes from the action of using spurs on a horse, thereby inciting the animal to run faster. The term is used in both written and oral contexts, but it may be more prevalent in written forms due to its somewhat literary connotation.

Example Sentences

1. El maestro decidió espolear el interés de sus estudiantes por la ciencia.

2. The teacher decided to spur his students' interest in science.

3. El líder del proyecto intentó espolear a su equipo para que trabajaran más rápido.

4. The project leader tried to urge his team to work faster.

5. El artículo en la revista espoleó un debate sobre la educación pública.

6. The article in the magazine spurred a debate about public education.

Idiomatic Expressions

Espolear is not highly featured in common idiomatic expressions; however, it is related to a few phrases where the idea of encouragement or incitement is relevant.

1. Espolear a alguien para la acción.
2. To spur someone into action.
3. El discurso del presidente espoleó a la nación para actuar contra el cambio climático.

4. The president's speech spurred the nation to act against climate change.

5. Espolear el ánimo.

6. To boost the spirit.
7. La buena noticia espoleó el ánimo de todos en la oficina.

8. The good news boosted everyone’s spirits in the office.

9. Espolear el entusiasmo.

10. To incite enthusiasm.
11. La presentación del nuevo producto espoleó el entusiasmo entre los empleados.
12. The presentation of the new product incited enthusiasm among the employees.

Etymology

The term espolear comes from the Latin word “spoliare,” which means to strip or plunder. The connection to spurs references the action of urging a horse to increase speed, ultimately leading to the more generalized meaning of inciting or urging others.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Incitar - Impulsar - Animar

Antonyms: - Desalentar - Ralentizar - Retardar