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

Part of Speech

The word "ocupar" is a verb in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

The phonetic transcription of "ocupar" in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /okaˈpuɾ/.

Translation Options into English

• To occupy
• To take up
• To hold (a position)
• To engage (in an activity)

Meaning and Usage

"Ocupar" is commonly used in the Spanish language to denote the act of taking control or possession of a space, position, or role. It can refer to physical space, such as occupying a room, or abstract concepts like occupying a certain role in a relationship or organization. Its frequency of use is quite high, and it is applicable in both spoken and written contexts, but it tends to be more prevalent in formal writings, especially in legal and military contexts.

Example Sentences

1. "Es necesario ocupar el espacio de manera eficiente."

2. "It is necessary to occupy the space efficiently."

3. "Voy a ocupar este puesto en la empresa durante seis meses."

4. "I will occupy this position in the company for six months."

5. "Ellos decidieron ocupar el edificio como protesta."

6. "They decided to occupy the building as a protest."

Idiomatic Expressions

"Ocupar" is often used in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish. Here are some examples:

1. "Ocupar el lugar"
2. Meaning: To take someone's place.
3. Example: "Ella tuvo que ocupar el lugar de su compañero en la reunión."

4. "She had to take her colleague’s place in the meeting."

5. "Ocupar un cargo"

6. Meaning: To hold a position.
7. Example: "Él ha ocupado un cargo importante en la organización."

8. "He has held an important position in the organization."

9. "Ocupar el tiempo"

10. Meaning: To fill time or to pass time.
11. Example: "Me gusta ocupar el tiempo leyendo libros."

12. "I like to fill my time by reading books."

13. "Ocupar la mente"

14. Meaning: To occupy one's mind.
15. Example: "Iniciar un nuevo proyecto puede ocupar la mente de una persona creativa."

16. "Starting a new project can occupy the mind of a creative person."

17. "Ocupar un espacio"

18. Meaning: To take up space.
19. Example: "El nuevo sofá ocupa mucho espacio en la sala de estar."
20. "The new sofa takes up a lot of space in the living room."

Etymology

The word "ocupar" comes from the Latin "occupare," which means "to seize or to take possession of." The root "capere," meaning "to seize," is also present in various Romance languages.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - "Asumir" (to assume) - "Adquirir" (to acquire) - "Aprovechar" (to take advantage of)

Antonyms: - "Desocupar" (to vacate) - "Liberar" (to free) - "Renunciar" (to resign)

In conclusion, "ocupar" is a versatile verb widely used in various contexts in Spanish, encompassing both physical and abstract applications. Its prevalence in idiomatic expressions highlights the richness of the language, making it an essential term for anyone interested in mastering Spanish.