The verb "torturar" refers to the act of inflicting severe pain or suffering on someone, often to extract information or as a form of punishment. In the Spanish language, it is primarily used in a legal and humanitarian context, particularly regarding human rights violations. It appears in both oral and written forms, but due to its serious implications, it is more frequently encountered in written contexts such as legal documents, reports, and discussions regarding human rights.
The prisoners were tortured during the interrogation.
Es inaceptable que se torture a cualquier ser humano.
It is unacceptable to torture any human being.
La convención prohíbe explícitamente torturar a los detenidos.
While "torturar" does not commonly appear in many idiomatic expressions, it can be used in phrases that convey the intensity of suffering or pressure. Here are a few related expressions:
The boss tortured me with questions about the project.
No hay necesidad de torturar la verdad
There is no need to torture the truth; just tell me what happened.
Torturar el alma
The word "torturar" comes from the Latin "torturare," which also means "to twist or to torment." The Latin root is related to "tormentum," which means "instrument of torment." This reflects the physical and psychological aspects of torment associated with torture.
afligir (to afflict)
Antonyms
The word "torturar" encompasses significant moral and ethical implications, particularly in discussions surrounding human rights and international law.