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

Part of Speech

Verb

Phonetic Transcription

/mānˈtʃar/

Translation Options into English

• To stain
• To smudge
• To soil
• To tarnish

Meaning and Usage

The verb "manchar" in Spanish means "to stain" or "to make dirty". It is commonly used to describe the act of applying something that leaves a mark or discoloration on a surface, whether it is a physical object or an image (like in painting). "Manchar" can also be used metaphorically to denote harming someone's reputation or credibility.

In terms of frequency, "manchar" is a commonly used verb in both oral and written contexts, although it may be encountered more frequently in everyday conversation when talking about physical objects.

Example Sentences

1. No quiero manchar la camisa blanca con la pintura.

2. I don't want to stain the white shirt with the paint.

3. Ella se preocupó porque podía manchar el sofá con la comida.

4. She was worried because she could stain the sofa with the food.

5. Sus comentarios mancharon su reputación en la comunidad.

6. His comments tarnished his reputation in the community.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Manchar" is often found in various idiomatic expressions that reflect nuances of the word in a figurative sense. Here are a few:

1. Manchar el nombre
2. Ejemplo: Sus acciones mancharon el nombre de la familia.

3. Translation: His actions stained the family name.

4. Mancharse las manos

5. Ejemplo: En la política, a veces hay que mancharse las manos para conseguir resultados.

6. Translation: In politics, sometimes you have to get your hands dirty to achieve results.

7. No manchar el expediente

8. Ejemplo: Es importante no manchar el expediente académico si quieres obtener una beca.

9. Translation: It's important not to tarnish your academic record if you want to get a scholarship.

10. Manchar la imagen

11. Ejemplo: El escándalo manchó la imagen de la empresa.
12. Translation: The scandal tarnished the company's image.

Etymology

The word "manchar" comes from the Latin "maculāre," which means "to spot" or "to stain." The Latin term is derived from "macula," meaning "spot" or "stain."

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Suciar (to dirty) - Embarrar (to smear) - Tachar (to blot)

Antonyms: - Limpiar (to clean) - Aclarar (to clarify) - Purificar (to purify)

This comprehensive analysis of the verb "manchar" should provide you with a thorough understanding of its usage, meaning, and context in the Spanish language.