abarcar
“abarcar” means “to cover” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to cover, to include
Also: to encompass
📝 In Action
El curso abarca desde la historia antigua hasta la moderna.
A2The course covers everything from ancient to modern history.
Nuestra investigación abarca varios países de Europa.
B1Our research covers several European countries.
Es un proyecto ambicioso que abarca todas las áreas de la empresa.
B2It is an ambitious project that encompasses all areas of the company.
to reach around
Also: to span
📝 In Action
Mis brazos no pueden abarcar ese árbol tan grande.
B1My arms can't reach around that big tree.
El puente abarca todo el ancho del río.
B2The bridge spans the entire width of the river.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: abarcar
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the correct 'yo' form in the past tense?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the prefix 'a-' and 'barca' (hoop or clamp), originally related to the Latin 'bracchium' (arm). It literally meant to take something into one's arms.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'incluir' and 'abarcar'?
'Incluir' is a general word for 'to include'. 'Abarcar' specifically emphasizes the range or extent of what is being included, like saying 'it spans everything from A to Z'.
Is 'abarcar' a regular verb?
Almost! It follows regular -ar patterns, but it has a small spelling change (c to qu) when the ending starts with 'e', such as in 'yo abarqué'.
Can I use 'abarcar' for physical distance?
Yes! You can use it to describe a bridge spanning a river or a view that covers the entire valley.