sintonizar is a verb.
/sin.to.niˈθaɾ/ (Castilian Spanish)
/sin.to.niˈzɑːɹ/ (Latin America)
The verb sintonizar refers to the act of adjusting a device to receive a specific frequency or signal, often in the context of radios or televisions. It can also mean to mentally or emotionally align with someone or something. Its usage transcends conversational contexts and is prominent in technical, scientific, and everyday narratives. It is frequently used in both oral and written forms, although it maintains a slightly higher prevalence in technical discussions.
Es necesario sintonizar la radio para escuchar la estación correcta.
It is necessary to tune the radio to listen to the correct station.
Para ver el canal de noticias, debes sintonizarlo en el televisor.
To watch the news channel, you must tune it in on the television.
Siempre trato de sintonizar con mis amigos antes de una reunión.
I always try to connect with my friends before a meeting.
While sintonizar is less commonly featured in specific idiomatic expressions, its metaphorical use in various contexts can be noted.
Es importante sintonizar con los objetivos del equipo para lograr el éxito.
It is important to align with the team's goals to achieve success.
No puedo sintonizar con una persona que tiene ideas tan diferentes.
I cannot connect with someone who has such different ideas.
Para que la música suene bien, todos deben sintonizar en la misma frecuencia.
For the music to sound good, everyone must tune in to the same frequency.
The word sintonizar comes from the Spanish adaptation of the English term “synchronize” and the Greek root synchronos, meaning “at the same time.” In Spanish, this reflects both the technical sense of tuning into a frequency as well as the broader sense of alignment or coordination.
Synonyms: - ajustar (to adjust) - afinar (to fine-tune) - sincronizar (to synchronize)
Antonyms: - desintonizar (to lose tune) - desajustar (to misadjust) - desconectar (to disconnect)