Spanish word

describir

Pronunciation

IPA/deskɾiˈβiɾ/

Meaning

  • verbdescribe

Example

Ella sabe describir a la gente con detalle.

She knows how to describe people in detail.

Illustration for describir (describe)

More examples

Antes de pintar, intenta describir el paisaje con palabras.

Before painting, try to describe the landscape in words.

Core concept

A person pointing out distinguishing features and fine details so a listener can picture someone or something.

Common phrases

  • describir a una persona

    describe a person

  • describir un lugar

    describe a place

  • describir los síntomas

    describe the symptoms

Similar words

explicar: Clarifies why something is or how to do it, using clear reasons or ordered steps.
detallar: Enumerates fine points and particulars to give a detailed, precise account.
narrar: Recounts happenings step by step to show how events unfolded over time.
contar: Narrates an incident or tells a story to someone, often as a personal account.

Definition in Spanish

Decir o escribir con palabras cómo es alguien o algo, indicando rasgos y pequeños detalles.

Word origin

The verb comes from Latin describĕre (de- 'down' + scribĕre 'write') and shifts from the original sense 'write down' to naming or recounting features in speech or writing.

Usage tips

  • The past participle is irregular: perfect tenses use descrito rather than *describido.

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word