Part of Speech

The word "recortar" is a verb in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

The phonetic transcription using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /re.koɾˈtaɾ/.

Translation Options into English

"Recortar" can be translated into English as: - To cut - To trim - To reduce

Meaning and Context

"Recortar" means to cut back, reduce, or trim something, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. In general usage, it can refer to cutting down a piece of paper, reducing expenses or budget, or even minimizing time. It is commonly used in both written and spoken contexts, and it often appears in discussions related to finances, administration, and art (like editing photographs).

The frequency of "recortar" is quite high, especially in discussions involving budgets, editing materials, or trimming physical objects.

Example Sentences

1. Necesitamos recortar el presupuesto para el próximo año.
   We need to cut the budget for next year.

2. Voy a recortar el documento para que quepa en el sobre.
   I will trim the document so that it fits in the envelope.

3. El artista decidió recortar la imagen para darle un nuevo enfoque.
   The artist decided to cut the image to give it a new focus.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Recortar" is frequently used in idiomatic expressions, especially in contexts related to limitations or reductions. Some expressions include:

1. Recortar gastos
   To cut expenses
   El gobierno anunció que tendría que recortar gastos para equilibrar el presupuesto.
   The government announced it would have to cut expenses to balance the budget.

2. Recortar el tiempo
   To cut time
   La nueva ruta nos permitirá recortar el tiempo de viaje considerablemente.
   The new route will allow us to cut the travel time considerably.

3. Recortar el rango
   To narrow down the range
   Es necesario recortar el rango de opciones para facilitar la decisión.
   It is necessary to narrow down the range of options to make the decision easier.

4. Recortar la información
   To reduce the information
   Debemos recortar la información innecesaria en el informe.
   We should reduce the unnecessary information in the report.

5. Recortar las alas
   To clip the wings (figuratively, to limit someone’s capabilities)
   Al imponer tantas restricciones, parece que quieren recortar las alas a los empleados.
   By imposing so many restrictions, it seems they want to clip the wings of the employees.

Etymology

The word "recortar" is derived from the prefix "re-" which denotes repetition or backward motion, and "cortar," which means "to cut." Together, they convey the idea of cutting something back or again.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Cortar (to cut) - Reducir (to reduce) - Disminuir (to lessen)

Antonyms: - Aumentar (to increase) - Ampliar (to enlarge) - Expandir (to expand)