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

Part of Speech

herir is a verb.

Phonetic Transcription

/hɛˈɾiɾ/

Translation Options into English

• to wound
• to hurt
• to injure

Meaning and Usage in Spanish

The verb herir refers to causing someone physical or emotional pain or injury. It is commonly used in both general and medical contexts.

• Frequency of use: It is frequently used in both oral and written contexts.
• Oral speech: More common in spoken language when discussing injuries or feelings.
• Written context: Used in literature, medical reports, and legal documents.

Example Sentences

1. La bala logró herir al soldado en el campo de batalla.

2. The bullet managed to wound the soldier on the battlefield.

3. Sus palabras pudieron herir los sentimientos de su amigo.

4. His words could hurt his friend's feelings.

5. Hay que tener cuidado al herir a los demás con nuestras opiniones.

6. We must be careful when hurting others with our opinions.

Idiomatic Expressions

While herir is used predominantly in a literal sense, it can appear in idiomatic expressions related to emotions and interpersonal relationships. Here are some examples:

1. Herir de muerte - to wound fatally
2. La traición lo hirió de muerte, nunca volvió a confiar en ella.

3. The betrayal wounded him fatally; he never trusted her again.

4. Herir con la palabra - to hurt with words

5. A veces, herir con la palabra puede ser más doloroso que una herida física.

6. Sometimes, hurting with words can be more painful than a physical wound.

7. Herido en su orgullo - hurt in his pride

8. Se sintió herido en su orgullo después de ser rechazado.

9. He felt hurt in his pride after being rejected.

10. Hasta herir - to hurt someone deeply

11. La verdad a veces puede hasta herir si se dice sin tacto.
12. The truth can sometimes hurt someone deeply if said tactlessly.

Etymology

Herir comes from the Latin verb ferire, meaning "to strike" or "to hit." This same root is present in other romantic languages, indicating a consistent conceptualization of causing injury or harm.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - lastimar - lesionar - dañar

Antonyms: - curar (to heal) - proteger (to protect) - ayudar (to help)

This detailed examination of herir encompasses its usage, meanings, and contextual applications in the Spanish language.