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

Part of Speech

Verb

Phonetic Transcription

/mu.tiˈlar/

Translation Options

1. To mutilate
2. To maim
3. To disfigure

Meaning and Usage

The verb mutilar refers to the act of inflicting severe damage to a body part, resulting in its significant alteration or destruction. In legal and figurative contexts, it can refer to the irreversible damage or loss of something's integrity, be it physical or metaphorical. The frequency of use for this word is moderate, and it is often employed in both oral and written contexts, especially in discussions surrounding violence, criminal law, or artistic expression.

Example Sentences

1. "El criminal decidió mutilar a su víctima."

2. "The criminal decided to mutilate his victim."

3. "La guerra dejó a muchas personas mutiladas."

4. "The war left many people maimed."

5. "Mutilar una obra de arte es un acto despreciable."

6. "Mutilating a work of art is a despicable act."

Idiomatic Expressions

While mutilar is not as commonly featured in idiomatic expressions, its root concepts related to damage and loss can lead to expressions that convey similar sentiments. Here are a few examples:

1. "Mutilar la verdad."
2. "To mutilate the truth."

3. This phrase refers to distorting or hiding the truth by omitting essential parts.

4. "Mutilar los sueños."

5. "To mutilate dreams."

6. This expression is used to describe actions or situations that severely hinder someone's aspirations.

7. "Mutilar la identidad."

8. "To mutilate one's identity."

9. This refers to actions that fundamentally distort or alter an individual’s sense of self.

10. "Mutilar la libertad."

11. "To mutilate freedom."
12. This phrase often describes actions that severely restrict personal freedoms or rights.

Etymology

The word mutilar originates from the Latin mutilare, which is derived from mutilus, meaning "mutilated" or "maimed." The root reflects the action of making a part less complete or less whole, which carries through in its current meaning.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Desfigurar (to disfigure) - Dañar (to damage) - Herir (to wound)

Antonyms: - Completar (to complete) - Restaurar (to restore) - Curar (to heal)

This comprehensive analysis provides insight into the word mutilar, its use in the Spanish language, and related concepts.