Spanish word

complacer

Pronunciation

IPA/komplaˈθeɾ/

Meaning

  • verbplease

Example

Quiero complacer a mis padres.

I want to please my parents.

Illustration for complacer (please)

More examples

No siempre puedo complacer a todos.

I can't always please everyone.

Core concept

Doing something that gives someone pleasure or approval.

Common phrases

  • complacer a alguien

    please someone

  • complacer los deseos

    grant wishes

Similar words

gustar: Appeals to someone's taste, causing them to feel liking or interest.
agradar: Produces a pleasant sensation that makes someone find something agreeable.
encantar: Inspires intense delight or very strong fondness.
halagar: Flatters with praise or compliments to make someone feel pleased.

Definition in Spanish

Dar gusto o satisfacer a alguien mediante acciones, palabras o gestos; usado reflexivamente (complacerse) para indicar que uno queda satisfecho.

Word origin

Directly from Latin complacēre 'to please', the verb retains the idea of giving pleasure or approval through gestures, words, or favors.

Usage tips

  • When used about behavior, complacer or complaciente can carry a shade of ingratiating flattery, so context shows whether the tone is genuine or obsequious.

Other meanings

  • satisfyverb

Opposites

Related words

  • complacenciasatisfactionnoun
  • complacienteobligingadjective
  • complacientementeobliginglyadverb

Word lists with this word