batir
beat
Mover algo con rapidez y energía, como cuando se mezclan líquidos o se agitan alas.
The Spanish verb "batir" has several meanings depending on the context, but its primary sense is related to mixing or beating substances. Here's a detailed explanation:
Meaning:
-
To beat or whip:
This is the most common meaning of "batir." It refers to the action of mixing ingredients vigorously, typically in cooking or baking. For example, beating eggs or cream to incorporate air and change texture. -
To break or surpass:
In a different context, "batir" means to break a record or surpass a previous achievement, such as in sports ("batir un récord" – to break a record). -
To flap:
It can also mean the action of flapping, such as a bird flapping its wings ("las alas baten"). -
To defeat:
Less commonly, "batir" can mean to defeat or conquer someone in a competition or conflict.
Examples:
- Batir los huevos para hacer una tortilla.
(Beat the eggs to make an omelette.) - El atleta batió el récord mundial.
(The athlete broke the world record.) - Las aves baten sus alas.
(The birds flap their wings.) - El equipo logró batir a sus rivales.
(The team managed to defeat their rivals.)
Parts of the word:
- Root: bat-.
The root does not have a direct meaning outside of its use in verbs related to beating or striking.
Synonyms:
- For beating (mixing): mezclar (mix), remover (stir).
- For breaking records: superar (surpass), romper (break).
- For flapping: agitar (shake), movimiento repetitivo (repetitive movement).
- For defeating: vencer (defeat), derrotar (defeat).
Antonyms:
- For beating (mixing): dejar sin mezclar (leave unblended), though usually not a direct antonym.
- For breaking/surpassing: igualar (match), perder (lose).
- For flapping: quedarse quieto (stay still).
- For defeating: perder (lose).
In summary, "batir" is a versatile Spanish verb mainly meaning to beat or whip, but also used for breaking records, flapping, or defeating broadly depending on context.
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Examples
Para hacer el pastel, debes batir los huevos bien.verb
To make the cake, you must beat the eggs well.
Primero necesitas batir los huevos con azúcar en un recipiente.verb
First you need to beat the eggs with sugar in a bowl.
¿Cuánto tiempo debemos batir la mezcla para que quede suave?verb
How long should we beat the mixture so that it becomes smooth?
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