Verb
[soka'βaɾ]
The verb "socavar" primarily means to undermine or erode something, either physically or figuratively. It can refer to the gradual weakening of a structure, institution, or authority. In a figurative sense, "socavar" is often used to describe actions that weaken someone's confidence, authority, or reputation.
In terms of frequency, "socavar" is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, particularly in discussions related to politics, law, and social issues, where the effects of undermining authority or trust are frequently analyzed.
The financial scandal undermined the public's trust in the government.
Las decisiones erróneas de la gerencia socavan la moral de los empleados.
The management's wrong decisions undermine employee morale.
La falta de transparencia puede socavar la efectividad de la política pública.
"Socavar" is not a part of many fixed idiomatic expressions, but it is often employed in various phrases describing erosion or weakening:
To undermine the foundations of trust.
Socavar la autoridad de alguien.
To undermine someone's authority.
Socavar la estabilidad política.
To undermine political stability.
Socavar la fe en las instituciones.
To undermine faith in institutions.
Socavar el bienestar de la comunidad.
Each of these expressions conveys a significant idea about weakening or damaging essential elements in various contexts.
The word "socavar" originates from the Latin "subcavare," which means "to hollow out." The prefix "sub-" means under or below, and "cavare" means to hollow or excavate. This root reflects both the physical and metaphorical aspects of undermining.
Synonyms: - Minar (to undermine) - Erosionar (to erode) - Subvertir (to subvert)
Antonyms: - Fortalecer (to strengthen) - Sostener (to support) - Establecer (to establish)