Translation of Spanish word "sentar" to English
sentar
/sen.ˈtaɾ/
Meaning
VerbTo put an object into a place where it will rest; to fix; to set firm.
How to use
In formal settings, 'sentar' is often used to describe the act of placing someone in a position of authority or responsibility. For example, 'El jefe decidió sentar a su hijo como director de la empresa' (The boss decided to appoint his son as the company's director). However, in informal contexts, 'sentar' can also imply a sense of forcing or coercing someone into a particular situation. For instance, 'Ella se sintió sentada en la silla por su madre' (She felt forced to sit in the chair by her mother). Learners often confuse 'sentar' with 'poner', but the key difference lies in the nuance of 'sentar' implying a sense of permanence or fixity.
🇬🇧 English
to seat, to sit (reflexive)
Example
Voy a sentar al bebé en su silla alta.
I am going to seat the baby in his high chair.
Este clima frío no le suele sentar bien a mi abuela.
This cold weather does not usually suit my grandmother well.
Your personal vocabulary
🦊 Use this word in a live AI conversationSynonyms
Common phrases
- sentar la cabeza— to get one's head together
- sentar a alguien en la silla— to put someone in their place
- sentar un precedente— to set a precedent
- sentar las bases— to lay the foundations
- sentar a alguien en el trono— to put someone on the throne
📖 Related grammar
🦊 Conjugation of the verb "sentar"Full conjugation →
Present Tense (Presente)
Simple Past (Pretérito Indefinido)
Perfect (Pretérito Perfecto)
he sentado
Imperative (Imperativo)
Frequency rank: #296 in Spanish
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Spanish word "sentar" mean?▼
The Spanish word "sentar" means "to seat, to sit (reflexive)" in English.
How do you pronounce the Spanish word "sentar"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "sentar" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "sentar"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "Voy a sentar al bebé en su silla alta." (which translates as "I am going to seat the baby in his high chair.").
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