Spanish Conversation · Level 35
75 words
Spanish word
desanimar
Pronunciation
IPA/desaniˈmaɾ/
Meaning
- verbdiscourage
Example
No quiero desanimarte.
I don't want to discourage you.
More examples
No te dejes desanimar por un error.
Don't let yourself be discouraged by a mistake.
Core concept
A dimming candle flame.
Common phrases
dejarse desanimar
let yourself be discouraged
desanimar a alguien
discourage someone
Similar words
desmotivar: Lower someone's interest or drive so they stop trying.
deprimir: Produce a deep sadness that saps a person's energy.
desalentar: Make someone lose courage or confidence and hesitate to act.
desilusionar: Disappoint someone by breaking their expectations.
Definition in Spanish
Provocar que alguien deje de estar animado o motivado para intentar algo, ya sea por palabras o por circunstancias.
Word origin
From Spanish animar 'to encourage' (from Latin anima 'breath, spirit') with the prefix des- 'undo', giving the sense of taking away encouragement.
Usage tips
- The verb commonly takes a person as direct object (desanimar a alguien), while the reflexive form desanimarse indicates that someone becomes discouraged.