valerse de
Lemma Details
Translation: to make use of; to take advantage of; to resort to; to avail oneself of
Part of Speech: reflexive verb phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines the reflexive form of the verb 'valer' (to be worth, to cost) with the preposition 'de'. 'Valer' comes from Latin 'valere' meaning 'to be strong, to be worth'. The reflexive construction with 'de' creates the meaning of using something for one's benefit or advantage. The English word 'value' shares the same Latin root, making a connection between worth and utility.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 40%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Me valgo de la tecnología para trabajar más eficientemente.
I make use of technology to work more efficiently.
Se valieron de trucos para ganar el juego.
They resorted to tricks to win the game.
Se valió de su posición para conseguir el contrato.
He took advantage of his position to get the contract.
Nos valemos de la experiencia para evitar errores.
We avail ourselves of experience to avoid mistakes.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'value' + 'self' = using something valuable for yourself
- Remember that 'valerse' contains 'vale' (it's worth it) - so you're making something worth it for yourself
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts in Spanish-speaking countries. It can have both positive connotations (resourcefully using available means) and negative ones (manipulating situations or people for personal gain).
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Valerse de' is reflexive and means to make use of something, while 'valer' alone means 'to be worth' or 'to cost'.
This word:
Me valgo de mis contactos para encontrar trabajo.
I make use of my contacts to find work.
Confused word:
Este libro vale veinte euros.
This book costs twenty euros.
Notes: The reflexive construction changes the meaning from passive worth to active utilization.
Mnemonic: When you add 'se' and 'de', you're using something's value for yourself.
Explanation: While both mean 'to take advantage of', 'valerse de' is more neutral and can be positive, whereas 'aprovecharse de' often has a negative connotation of exploiting or taking unfair advantage.
This word:
Se vale de sus habilidades para resolver problemas.
He makes use of his skills to solve problems.
Confused word:
Se aprovechó de su buena fe para engañarlo.
He took advantage of his good faith to deceive him.
Notes: Context is important to determine if either phrase has a negative connotation in a specific situation.
Mnemonic: Think of 'aprovecharse' as 'taking profit' (often unfairly) while 'valerse' is just 'using value'.