esmerar
make an effort · strive
The Spanish verb "esmerar" means to take great care or trouble to do something very well, to be meticulous or diligent in performing a task or duty.
Meaning
- To put special effort or care into doing something.
- To be careful, precise, and meticulous.
Etymology and Parts
- The verb is often used pronominally as "esmerarse," meaning "to make an effort," "to strive," or "to take pains."
- It comes from the noun "esmero," which means care, effort, or attention to detail.
Usage examples:
- Esmerar en un trabajo = to be careful or thorough in a job.
- Se esmeró mucho en preparar la presentación = He/she took great care in preparing the presentation.
Synonyms
- Esforzarse (to exert oneself)
- Aplicarse (to apply oneself)
- Cuidar (to care for)
- Detallista (when referring to careful or meticulous work)
Antonyms
- Descuidar (to neglect)
- Desatender (to disregard)
- Ignorar (to ignore)
In summary, esmerar implies a high level of dedication, care, or effort to achieve quality or precision in a task. When used reflexively (esmerarse), it conveys the idea of making an effort oneself.
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Examples
Ellos se esmeraron en la presentación para impresionar al público.verb
They made an effort in the presentation to impress the audience.
¿Te vas a esmerar en practicar más cada día?verb
Are you going to strive to practice more every day?
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