Spanish Conversation · Level 21
90 words
Spanish word
poner
Pronunciation
IPA/poˈneɾ/
Meaning
- verbput
Example
¿Puedes poner el libro en la mesa?
Can you put the book on the table?
More examples
Antes de cenar, voy a poner la mesa.
Before dinner, I'm going to set the table.
Core concept
Putting something down or arranging it for use.
Common phrases
poner la mesa
set the table
poner música
play music
poner atención
pay attention
Similar words
colocar: Place an object carefully in its proper position.
situar: Locate or situate something within a space or environment.
meter: Insert an object into a box, bag, or other container.
dejar: Leave an item where it is and allow it to stay unchanged.
Definition in Spanish
Colocar o introducir algo en un lugar y, además, dejar listo o encender algo para usar.
Word origin
From Latin ponere 'to place,' poner develops broad senses of placing, preparing, and turning on and forms compounds like imponer and suponer.
Usage tips
- In everyday Spanish poner often means 'turn on' for devices (poner la radio) and also 'set' for tasks like poner la mesa, so context decides whether it is placing or activating.