The word "retirar" is a verb in Spanish.
/r.e.tiˈɾaɾ/
The verb "retirar" generally means to withdraw or to remove something. It can be used in various contexts, such as taking money out of a bank, removing an object from a place, or withdrawing support or participation in an activity. It is frequently used in both oral speech and written contexts, and it can vary in frequency depending on the specific domain. In general, "retirar" has a moderate frequency of use in everyday conversations and official communications.
Voy a retirar dinero del cajero.
"I am going to withdraw money from the ATM."
Decidí retirar mi apoyo a la propuesta.
"I decided to withdraw my support for the proposal."
Por favor, retira los objetos de la mesa antes de cenar.
"Please remove the objects from the table before dinner."
The verb "retirar" can appear in various idiomatic expressions and contexts. Below are a few examples:
Retirar el dedo de la llaga.
"To withdraw the finger from the wound."
This means to stop aggravating a situation or to stop bringing up a painful topic.
Retirarse a tiempo.
"To withdraw in time."
This means to step back or leave a situation before it becomes problematic.
No hay que retirar el ojo del objetivo.
"One must not remove the eye from the target."
This expression suggests staying focused on one's goals.
Retirarse a la vida privada.
"To withdraw to private life."
This means to stop participating publicly and focus on personal matters.
Retirar las palabras.
"To take back the words."
It implies retracting a previous statement or apology.
Es mejor retirar el dedo de la llaga antes de que la discusión se intensifique.
"It's better to withdraw the finger from the wound before the argument intensifies."
Decidí retirarme a tiempo antes de que la situación se complicara.
"I decided to withdraw in time before the situation got complicated."
The word "retirar" comes from the Latin "retirare," which is formed by the prefix "re-" meaning "back" and "tirare," meaning "to pull." Thus, it literally translates to "pulling back."