arreglar un asunto
Lemma Details
Translation: to settle a matter; to resolve an issue; to sort out a problem; to fix a situation
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines 'arreglar' (from Latin 'ad' + 'regulare', meaning 'to regulate' or 'to put in order') with 'asunto' (from Latin 'assumptus', past participle of 'assumere', meaning 'to take up' or 'to undertake'). The combination creates a phrase about putting a matter or issue into proper order or resolution.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Necesito arreglar un asunto con el banco antes de irme de vacaciones.
I need to settle a matter with the bank before going on vacation.
El abogado se encargará de arreglar este asunto legal.
The lawyer will take care of resolving this legal issue.
Tenemos que arreglar este asunto antes de que se complique más.
We need to sort out this problem before it gets more complicated.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'arreglar' as 'arranging' something to make it right
- Associate 'asunto' with 'assume' - you're assuming responsibility for a matter
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in both business and personal contexts in Spanish-speaking countries. It often implies taking responsibility for resolving a situation that might be complicated or delicate.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'arreglar un asunto' refers to resolving an issue or matter (often abstract), 'arreglar una cosa' refers to fixing or repairing a physical object.
Confused word:
El técnico vino a arreglar una cosa que estaba rota en la cocina.
The technician came to fix something that was broken in the kitchen.
Notes: The distinction is important as using the wrong phrase could create confusion about whether you're dealing with a physical repair or resolving a situation.
Mnemonic: 'Asunto' is for abstract issues, 'cosa' is for concrete objects.
Explanation: While very similar in meaning, 'arreglar un asunto' often implies putting things in order or fixing a situation, while 'resolver un asunto' emphasizes finding a solution to a specific problem.
Confused word:
El juez resolverá este asunto en la próxima audiencia.
The judge will resolve this matter in the next hearing.
Notes: In many contexts, these phrases can be used interchangeably, but 'resolver' often implies a more definitive conclusion.
Mnemonic: Think of 'arreglar' as arranging or fixing, while 'resolver' is more about solving or finding a solution.