arreglar
Lemma Details
Translation: to fix; to arrange; to settle; to tidy up; to repair
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: From the prefix 'a-' (indicating movement toward) + 'regla' (rule, from Latin 'regula'), literally meaning 'to bring to order' or 'to put in rule'. The English cognate 'regulate' shares the same Latin root, both conveying the idea of bringing something into proper order or alignment.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Necesito arreglar mi coche.
I need to fix my car.
Voy a arreglar mi habitación.
I'm going to tidy up my room.
Podemos arreglar este problema hablando.
We can settle this problem by talking.
El mecánico arregló el motor en una hora.
The mechanic fixed the engine in an hour.
Ella arregló las flores en un jarrón.
She arranged the flowers in a vase.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'a-regla' as bringing something 'to rule' or into proper order.
- Associate with English 'regulate' - both involve putting things in proper order.
- Picture arranging items in a straight line using a ruler ('regla' in Spanish).
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'arreglar' is a versatile verb used in many contexts from home repairs to resolving conflicts. The concept of 'arreglo' (arrangement or agreement) is important in business and personal relationships, where finding mutually acceptable solutions is valued.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Arreglar' means to fix or arrange, while 'reglar' (much less common) means to regulate or establish rules.
Confused word:
Es necesario reglar el uso de los recursos.
It's necessary to regulate the use of resources.
Notes: 'Reglar' is much less common in everyday speech than 'arreglar'.
Mnemonic: 'Arreglar' has the 'a' prefix meaning 'toward' - you're bringing something toward order, while 'reglar' is about creating the rules themselves.
Explanation: 'Arreglar' is about fixing or arranging, while 'reglamentar' specifically means to regulate or establish regulations.
Confused word:
El gobierno debe reglamentar esta actividad.
The government must regulate this activity.
Notes: 'Reglamentar' is more formal and often used in legal or administrative contexts.
Mnemonic: Think of 'reglamentar' as creating a 'reglamento' (regulation), while 'arreglar' is more about practical fixing.