abrir
Lemma Details
Translation: to open; to unlock; to start; to initiate; to unfold; to expand
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: Abrir comes from Latin 'aperire' meaning 'to uncover, open'. This Latin root also gave English words like 'aperture' (an opening), 'April' (the month when flowers open), and 'overt' (open to view). The Latin 'aperire' is from Proto-Indo-European *wer- (to cover), with the prefix 'ab-' (away) giving the sense of 'uncover'.
Commonality: 95%
Guessability: 40%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Por favor, abre la ventana.
Please open the window.
La tienda abre a las nueve.
The store opens at nine.
Vamos a abrir una cuenta bancaria.
We're going to open a bank account.
Esta experiencia me abrió los ojos.
This experience opened my eyes.
El libro se abre en la primera página.
The book opens on the first page.
Mnemonics
- Think of an 'aperture' in a camera that opens to let light in.
- Remember 'April' is when flowers 'open' up in spring.
- The 'br' sound in 'abrir' is like the sound of a door creaking open.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, the concept of 'abrir' extends beyond physical opening to social contexts. 'Abrir las puertas a alguien' (to open doors to someone) is a common expression for welcoming or providing opportunities.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'abrir' means 'to open', 'cubrir' means 'to cover' - almost the opposite action.
Notes: The verbs have somewhat similar sounds but opposite meanings.
Mnemonic: 'Abrir' starts with 'a' for 'access', while 'cubrir' starts with 'c' for 'conceal'.
Explanation: 'Abrir' is the verb 'to open', while 'abril' is the month 'April'. They are etymologically related but have different uses.
Confused word:
Mi cumpleaños es en abril.
My birthday is in April.
Notes: Both words share the same Latin root 'aperire' (to open), as April is when flowers open.
Mnemonic: 'Abrir' ends with 'r' for 'release', while 'abril' ends with 'l' for the month when life blooms.