experimentar
Lemma Details
Translation: to experiment; to experience; to test; to try out; to undergo
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: From Latin 'experiri' meaning 'to try, test, prove, or experience'. The word shares the same Latin root as the English 'experiment' and 'experience'. The prefix 'ex-' means 'out of' or 'from', and 'periri' relates to 'peril' or 'risk', suggesting the original concept of gaining knowledge through testing or venturing into the unknown.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 90%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Los científicos experimentan con nuevos medicamentos.
The scientists experiment with new medications.
Experimenté una gran alegría cuando me dieron la noticia.
I experienced great joy when they gave me the news.
Quiero experimentar con nuevas recetas en la cocina.
I want to experiment with new recipes in the kitchen.
Está experimentando dificultades para adaptarse.
He is experiencing difficulties adapting.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'experiment' in English - they share the same root and similar meaning.
- The 'ar' ending tells you it's a first conjugation Spanish verb.
- Remember that it can mean both conducting a scientific experiment AND having a personal experience.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking scientific and academic contexts, 'experimentar' is commonly used to describe scientific methodology. In everyday speech, it's often used to describe personal experiences or trying new things.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Experimentar' is the verb (to experiment/experience), while 'experimentado' is the past participle or an adjective meaning 'experienced'.
This word:
Voy a experimentar con esta nueva técnica.
I'm going to experiment with this new technique.
Notes: As with many Spanish verbs, the past participle can function as an adjective.
Mnemonic: The '-ado' ending in 'experimentado' indicates it's describing someone who has already done the experimenting.
Explanation: While they look somewhat similar, 'experimentar' means to experiment or experience, while 'esperar' means to wait or hope.
Confused word:
Tengo que esperar el autobús.
I have to wait for the bus.
Notes: These verbs have completely different meanings despite some visual similarity.
Mnemonic: Think of 'esperar' as related to 'esperanza' (hope) or waiting in 'esperance', while 'experimentar' connects to 'experiment'.