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

Part of Speech

The word "forzar" is a verb in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

/forˈθaɾ/ (In Spain) or /forˈsaɾ/ (In Latin America)

Translation Options into English

• To force
• To compel
• To exert

Meaning and Usage

The verb "forzar" means to make someone do something against their will or to apply physical strength to achieve a result. It can also refer to pushing something to its limits or to break into something. "Forzar" is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, with a slightly higher prevalence in informal speech.

Examples: 1. Forzar la puerta (To force the door) 2. Forzar a alguien a hacer algo (To force someone to do something) 3. Forzar una situación (To manipulate a situation)

Example Sentences

1. El ladrón intentó forzar la cerradura de la puerta.
   (The thief tried to force the door lock.)

2. No puedes forzar a nadie a aceptar tu opinión.
   (You can't force anyone to accept your opinion.)

3. Tuvimos que forzar el motor para que funcionara.
   (We had to force the engine to make it work.)

Idiomatic Expressions

The verb "forzar" is used in several idiomatic expressions in Spanish:

1. Forzar la máquina
2. Meaning: To push oneself or a process to its limits.

3. Example: No debo forzar la máquina si quiero evitar problemas de salud.
   (I shouldn’t push the machine if I want to avoid health problems.)

4. Forzar la nota

5. Meaning: To exaggerate or push things too far.

6. Example: Estás forzando la nota al criticar su trabajo sin fundamento.
   (You are exaggerating by criticizing his work without basis.)

7. Forzar la situación

8. Meaning: To manipulate a situation to one's advantage.
9. Example: Él siempre intenta forzar la situación para salir ganando.
   (He always tries to manipulate the situation to come out on top.)

Etymology

The word "forzar" comes from the Latin "fortis," meaning strong or powerful, combined with the verb suffix “-ar.” Its structure indicates an action of applying strength or power.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Obligar (to oblige) - Imponer (to impose) - Acelerar (to hasten)

Antonyms: - Permitir (to allow) - Liberar (to free) - Suavizar (to soften)

In summary, "forzar" is a versatile verb frequently used in both everyday and formal contexts, with significant idiomatic usage in the Spanish language.