Spanish Conversation · Level 29
89 words
Spanish word
coartar
Pronunciation
IPA/koaɾˈtaɾ/
Meaning
- verbrestrict
Example
No podemos coartar la libertad de expresión.
We cannot restrict freedom of expression.
More examples
No debemos coartar la participación de los estudiantes en clase.
We should not restrict students' participation in class.
Core concept
A clamp squeezing a person's ability to speak or act.
Common phrases
coartar la participación
restrict participation
coartar la iniciativa
curtail initiative
Similar words
restringir: Restricts the scope or quantity of something to limit how it is used or accessed.
reprimir: Holds back physical movement or expression through force or tight control.
limitar: Imposes limits on what can be done or chosen by defining clear boundaries.
inhibir: Discourages action or response by producing internal hesitation or inhibition.
Definition in Spanish
Imponer trabas o límites que reducen la capacidad de una persona o grupo para actuar o expresarse libremente.
Word origin
From Latin coarctare 'to constrict', Spanish coartar shifts from literal tightening to imposing obstacles that reduce a person's or group's capacity to act or express themselves.
Usage tips
- Coartar carries a formal, often critical tone and commonly appears in legal or political contexts about rights or speech, whereas limitar is the more neutral word for everyday limits.