verb

impulsar

boost

Hacer que algo avance, se mueva o empiece con más fuerza o energía.

Definition & meaning

The verb impulsar has several related meanings depending on the context:

  1. To propel or push: To exert force on an object to move it forward or to give it momentum.
  2. To promote or encourage: To stimulate the development, growth, or progress of a project, idea, or initiative.
  3. To motivate: To provide the incentive or drive for someone to take action or achieve a goal.

Grammar & Word origin

Impulsar is a regular -ar verb. It comes from the Latin verb impulsare, which is the frequentative form of impellere (to push against, to drive forward).

The word is composed of the prefix in- (inward/into) and pulsare (to push or beat). In Spanish, it is often used in transitive structures where the subject provides the energy or initiative for an object or person to move or advance.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • Empujar (to push)
  • Propulsar (to propel)
  • Fomentar (to foster/promote)
  • Promover (to promote)
  • Incentivar (to incentivize)

Antonyms:

  • Frenar (to brake/slow down)
  • Detener (to stop)
  • Obstaculizar (to hinder/obstruct)
  • Desalentar (to discourage)

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Examples

El nuevo programa ayudará a impulsar el comercio local.verb

The new program will help boost local commerce.

El gobierno quiere impulsar la economía del país.verb

The government wants to boost the country's economy.

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