sorprender (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Verb

Phonetic Transcription

/sorˈprendeɾ/

Translation Options into English

• To surprise
• To astonish
• To amaze

Meaning and Usage

The verb "sorprender" means to cause someone to feel surprise or astonishment. It can refer to unexpected events, actions, or revelations that elicit a strong emotional response from the person experiencing it. The word is used frequently in both oral and written contexts, but it is particularly common in conversation, especially when discussing unexpected situations or feelings.

Frequency of Use

"Sorprender" is a quite common verb in the Spanish language, often employed to express instances of unforeseen occurrences in daily life.

Example Sentences

1. Me sorprendió la noticia de su matrimonio.

2. I was surprised by the news of his marriage.

3. La actuación de la artista realmente me sorprendió.

4. The artist's performance really surprised me.

5. No puedo creer que me haya sorprendido con un regalo.

6. I can't believe that he surprised me with a gift.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "sorprender" is not as commonly found in specific phrases or idiomatic expressions as some other verbs, it can still be associated with a few expressions that might indicate the element of surprise or unexpectedness.

Example Idiomatic Expressions

1. Sorprender a alguien con las manos en la masa.
2. To catch someone red-handed.

3. Este detective sorprendió al ladrón con las manos en la masa.

   • This detective caught the thief red-handed.

4. Sorprenderse de algo.

5. To be surprised by something.

6. Me sorprendí de que no lo supieras.

   • I was surprised that you didn't know that.

7. No deja de sorprenderme.

8. It never ceases to surprise me.
9. La creatividad de este artista no deja de sorprenderme.
   • The creativity of this artist never ceases to surprise me.

Etymology

The word "sorprender" originates from the Latin term "sorprendere," which combines the prefix "sub-" (under) and "prehendere" (to seize or grasp). Thus, the literal translation implies seizing someone unexpectedly.

Synonyms

• Asombrar (to astonish)
• Impresionar (to impress)
• Estupendar (to amaze)

Antonyms

• Aburrir (to bore)
• Predecir (to predict)
• Anticipar (to anticipate)