liquidar
Lemma Details
Translation: to liquidate; to settle; to pay off; to clear; to eliminate; to finish off; to kill
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: Derived from Latin 'liquidus' meaning 'fluid, clear, liquid'. The verb evolved to mean 'to make clear or liquid' and later extended to financial contexts as 'to clear debts' or 'to settle accounts'. The English cognate 'liquidate' shares this Latin root and similar meanings of settling debts and eliminating or destroying something.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Necesito liquidar mis deudas antes de fin de mes.
I need to pay off my debts before the end of the month.
La empresa decidió liquidar todo su inventario.
The company decided to liquidate all its inventory.
El asesino fue contratado para liquidar al testigo.
The assassin was hired to eliminate the witness.
Vamos a liquidar este asunto de una vez por todas.
Let's settle this matter once and for all.
Mnemonics
- Think of making something 'liquid' (clear) - when you liquidate a debt, you clear it up.
- Remember 'liquid + dar' (to give) - you're giving liquidity to a situation by resolving it.
- Associate with English 'liquidate' but note the broader everyday usage in Spanish.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'liquidar' is commonly used in business and financial contexts, but also has colloquial usage in contexts of elimination or destruction. The term 'liquidaciones' (clearance sales) is a common sight in retail stores during seasonal sales periods.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'liquidar' means to settle or eliminate, 'ligar' means to bind, connect, or flirt.
Notes: The 'quid' in 'liquidar' can help distinguish it from 'ligar', as can the additional syllable.
Mnemonic: 'Liquidar' has 'quid' in it, think of quid (money) being paid to settle something. 'Ligar' is shorter and simpler like a simple connection or tie.
Explanation: 'Liquidar' means to settle or eliminate, while 'licuar' means to liquefy or blend.
Confused word:
Voy a licuar estas frutas para hacer un batido.
I'm going to blend these fruits to make a smoothie.
Notes: Both words share the Latin root for 'liquid', but have evolved different meanings.
Mnemonic: 'Liquidar' deals with finances and endings, while 'licuar' deals with actual liquids.