tratar
Lemma Details
Translation: to treat; to deal with; to try; to handle; to discuss; to negotiate; to process
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: From Latin 'tractare', meaning 'to drag about, handle, manage', which is a frequentative form of 'trahere' (to pull, draw). The English cognate 'treat' comes from the same Latin root, as do words like 'tract', 'tractor', and 'contract'. The semantic evolution shows how physically handling something evolved into more abstract meanings of dealing with issues or people.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
El médico trata a sus pacientes con respeto.
The doctor treats his patients with respect.
Vamos a tratar este tema en la reunión.
We are going to discuss this topic in the meeting.
Trataré de llegar temprano mañana.
I will try to arrive early tomorrow.
Este libro trata sobre la historia de España.
This book is about the history of Spain.
Siempre me ha tratado como a un hijo.
He has always treated me like a son.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'tratar' as related to English 'treat' - both in medical contexts and in how you treat (deal with) people.
- For 'tratar de' (to try to), imagine you're 'treating' a problem by attempting to solve it.
- For business contexts, think of a 'trade' or 'treaty' - both involve dealing with others.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'tratar' is a versatile verb used in many contexts from business negotiations to social interactions. The way one 'trata' others is important in Hispanic cultures where interpersonal relationships are highly valued. The expression 'tratar de usted' vs 'tratar de tú' reflects the formal/informal distinction in how people address each other.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Tratar' means to treat or deal with, while 'tardar' means to take time or delay.
Notes: Both are common verbs but with completely different meanings despite similar spelling.
Mnemonic: 'Tardar' has 'tard' in it, like 'tardy' in English, meaning late.
Explanation: 'Tratar' means to treat or deal with, while 'traer' means to bring.
Notes: Both verbs are irregular but follow different conjugation patterns.
Mnemonic: 'Traer' sounds like 'try' with an extra syllable - you 'try' to bring something.