tapar

Word: tapar

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Meaning:

The Spanish verb "tapar" primarily means "to cover" or "to block". It is a transitive verb, meaning it usually requires a direct object.

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Explanation:

1. To cover:
   "Tapar" is used when you cover something, often to protect it, hide it, or close it. For example:

   • Tapar una olla con una tapa → "To cover a pot with a lid."
   • Tapar una fuga de agua → "To cover/plug a water leak."

2. To block or obstruct:
   It can also mean to block a place, an opening, or visibility.

   • Tapar la vista → "To block the view."
   • Un árbol tapa la ventana → "A tree blocks the window."

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Parts:

• The stem is tap-
• Common conjugations:
  • Yo tapo (I cover)
  • Tú tapas (you cover)
  • Él/Ella tapa (he/she covers)
  • Nosotros tapamos (we cover)
  • Ellos tapan (they cover)

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Synonyms:

• cubrir (to cover)
• esconder (to hide, when meaning to cover something hidden)
• bloquear (to block)
• obturar (to block) - mostly technical/medical

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Antonyms:

• destapar (to uncover; the direct opposite: removing the cover)
• descubrir (to discover, to uncover)
• abrir (to open - context-dependent)

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In summary, "tapar" is used when you physically cover or block something, often to hide, protect, or close it.