The verb "sobrar" generally means to remain or to be excessive beyond what is needed. It can be used in various contexts, such as when talking about food that is left after a meal or resources that are more than sufficient. It's commonly used in both oral and written Spanish, with a rich frequency in everyday conversation across a range of topics.
Sobran muchas galletas después de la fiesta.
(There are many cookies left over after the party.)
En este proyecto, sobra tiempo para terminarlo.
(In this project, there is plenty of time to finish it.)
No me sobra dinero para comprar esa ropa.
(I don't have extra money to buy that clothes.)
"Sobrar" is used in several idiomatic expressions that emphasize excess or abundance. Here are a few examples:
"Sobra decir"
This phrase means "it goes without saying."
Example: Sobra decir que necesitas estudiar para pasar el examen.
(It goes without saying that you need to study to pass the exam.)
"Sobran las palabras"
This expression means "words are unnecessary."
Example: Sobran las palabras para describir su talento.
(Words are unnecessary to describe her talent.)
"Sobra la razón"
This phrase means "there's no reason left."
Example: Ya sobran las razones para tomar esa decisión.
(There are no reasons left to make that decision.)
"Cuando sobra, se comparte"
This translates to "when there is surplus, it is shared."
Example: En esta comunidad, cuando sobra, se comparte.
(In this community, when there is surplus, it is shared.)
The verb "sobrar" originates from the Latin word superare, which means to surpass or to be above. Over time, it evolved into its modern usage in Spanish, retaining the core meaning related to excess or remainder.
In summary, "sobrar" is a versatile verb in Spanish that conveys the idea of surplus or excess, frequently utilized in both conversational and formal contexts, and it features in several idiomatic expressions emphasizing the themes of abundance and sufficiency.