Spanish word

encajar

Pronunciation

IPA/eŋkaˈxaɾ/

Meaning

  • verbfit, fit into

Example

Esa pieza no encaja en el rompecabezas.

That piece doesn't fit in the puzzle.

Illustration for encajar (fit)

More examples

Su propuesta no encaja con la idea del equipo.

Their proposal does not fit with the team's idea.

Core concept

A puzzle piece sliding into its exact slot.

Common phrases

  • encajar con la idea

    fit with the idea

  • encajar en la propuesta

    fit into the proposal

Similar words

integrarse: Join a group or organization and become an acknowledged, formal member.
adaptarse: Change behavior or attitude to suit a new environment or different circumstances.

Definition in Spanish

Adaptarse o ser compatible con un contexto, una idea o un grupo; por extensión, también quedar bien dentro de un hueco físico.

Word origin

The verb derives from Spanish en- + caja 'box', whose literal sense 'put into a box' extends figuratively to mean 'be compatible with a situation or group'.

Usage tips

  • With people, encajar takes en to express belonging while encajar con often marks agreement of opinions.

Other meanings

  • slot intoverb
  • suitverb
  • matchverb

Opposites

  • desentonarclashverb

Related words

  • encajefitnoun
  • encajamientofittingnoun

Word lists with this word