aceptar el reto
Lemma Details
Translation: to accept the challenge; to take up the challenge; to rise to the challenge
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines 'aceptar' (to accept) from Latin 'acceptare' (to receive willingly) and 'reto' (challenge) from Latin 'reputare' (to count again, reconsider). The phrase embodies the concept of willingly facing a difficult situation or task.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Los atletas aceptaron el reto de competir en condiciones extremas.
The athletes accepted the challenge of competing in extreme conditions.
Nuestra empresa ha aceptado el reto de reducir su huella de carbono.
Our company has taken up the challenge of reducing its carbon footprint.
¿Estás listo para aceptar el reto de aprender un nuevo idioma?
Are you ready to accept the challenge of learning a new language?
Mnemonics
- Think of 'accept' in English, which sounds similar to 'aceptar'
- Visualize someone confidently nodding and saying 'I accept' when presented with a trophy representing a challenge
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in Spanish-speaking cultures to express determination and courage in facing difficult situations. It appears frequently in motivational contexts, sports, business environments, and personal development discussions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'aceptar el reto' means 'to accept the challenge', 'aceptar el regalo' means 'to accept the gift'. Both use the verb 'aceptar' but with different objects that change the meaning completely.
Notes: The confusion typically arises from the similar structure and the same verb 'aceptar'.
Mnemonic: Reto requires effort; regalo is received with pleasure.
Explanation: 'Aceptar el reto' is about taking on a challenge, while 'aceptar la derrota' means 'to accept defeat' - essentially the opposite outcome.
Confused word:
El equipo tuvo que aceptar la derrota después del partido.
The team had to accept defeat after the match.
Notes: These phrases represent opposite points in a challenge sequence - the beginning versus the end.
Mnemonic: Reto comes before the action; derrota comes after.