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acercarse
/a.seɾˈkaɾ.se/
to approach
Me acerqué a la ventana para ver mejor.
I approached the window to see better.
general
To move closer to someone or something physically.
El perro se acercó a su dueño.
The dog approached its owner.
This is the most common meaning of 'acercarse' and is used in everyday contexts.
informal
To get closer to someone emotionally or in a relationship.
Después de años de amistad, decidimos acercarnos más.
After years of friendship, we decided to get closer.
This meaning is often used in personal or romantic contexts.
general
To come closer to a goal, idea, or understanding.
Estamos acercándonos a la solución del problema.
We are getting closer to solving the problem.
This meaning is often used in abstract or metaphorical contexts.
Collocations
acercarse a alguiento approach someoneacercarse a algoto approach somethingacercarse a una ideato get closer to an idea
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Reflexive vs. Non-Reflexive
Remember that 'acercarse' is reflexive, meaning the subject is the one moving closer. For example, 'Me acerqué a la puerta' (I approached the door).
Gold Rule
Context Matters
The meaning of 'acercarse' can vary based on context. Pay attention to whether it's used physically, emotionally, or metaphorically.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'ad' (to) + 'circare' (to go around). The verb 'acercarse' is a reflexive form meaning 'to bring oneself closer'.
Usage Notes
The reflexive form 'acercarse' is used when the subject is the one moving closer. The non-reflexive 'acercar' is used when the subject causes something else to move closer.
Word Breakdown
a-
to
prefixcerca
near
root-se
reflexive marker
suffixDiccionario Español-Inglés