Spanish Conversation · Level 110
60 words
Spanish word
abordar
Pronunciation
IPA/aβoɾˈðaɾ/
Meaning
- verbapproach
Example
Un vendedor me abordó en la entrada.
A salesperson approached me at the entrance.
More examples
La periodista intentó abordar al ministro para pedir una entrevista.
The reporter tried to speak to the minister to ask for an interview.
Core concept
A person stepping up to start a conversation.
Common phrases
abordar a alguien
speak to someone
abordar a un cliente
speak to a customer
Similar words
saludar: Gives a polite or casual greeting when meeting someone, typically a brief hello.
entablar: Begins a conversation with someone to open dialogue and exchange words or ideas.
acercarse: Moves physically closer to a person or object, shortening the distance between them.
dirigirse: Addresses a person directly by speaking to them and directing words their way.
Definition in Spanish
Dirigirse a una persona para empezar a hablar con ella, pedirle algo o plantearle un asunto; también puede significar subir a un vehículo o ponerse a tratar un tema.
Word origin
From Old French aborder (a- 'to' + bord 'edge'), originally 'come to the edge', a literal motion that extended metaphorically in Spanish to approaching someone, boarding, or taking up a topic.
Usage tips
- When used with a person, 'abordar a alguien' often implies initiating contact and can carry a soliciting or pushy connotation in street or sales situations.