Spanish Conversation · Level 71
60 words
Spanish word
obrar
Pronunciation
IPA/oˈβɾaɾ/
Meaning
- verbact
Example
Es importante obrar con honestidad.
It is important to act honestly.
More examples
Antes de decidir, conviene obrar con calma.
Before deciding, it's advisable to act with composure.
Core concept
A person carrying out a deliberate action that shows their manner of acting.
Common phrases
obrar por impulso
act on the spur of the moment
obrar con calma
act with composure
Similar words
actuar: Acts in line with a decision or intention, carrying out chosen plans deliberately.
proceder: Acts according to a set procedure or fixed order of operations.
comportarse: Behaves with the manners and attitude suited to a particular situation.
Definition in Spanish
Ejecutar o poner en práctica algo; también indicar el modo de obrar de una persona, frecuente en textos formales.
Word origin
From Latin operāre 'to work', via Old Spanish and linked to obra, obrar originally meant to do or carry out a task and later extended to a person's way of acting.
Usage tips
- Used mainly in formal, legal, or ethical phrases such as obrar bien and obrar de buena fe, while everyday Spanish prefers actuar or hacer.