aportar
“aportar” means “to contribute” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to contribute
Also: to provide, to invest
📝 In Action
Todos debemos aportar algo de dinero para el regalo.
A2We should all contribute some money for the gift.
El testigo aportó pruebas importantes al caso.
B1The witness provided important evidence to the case.
He aportado mi tiempo para ayudar en el refugio.
B1I have contributed my time to help at the shelter.
to bring to the table
Also: to add
📝 In Action
Ella aporta mucha experiencia al equipo.
B2She brings a lot of experience to the team.
Tus ideas aportan un valor increíble a este proyecto.
B2Your ideas add incredible value to this project.
Espero que mi comentario aporte algo positivo.
C1I hope my comment contributes something positive.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: aportar
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence correctly uses 'aportar' for donating money?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'apportare', which combines 'ad' (to/towards) and 'portare' (to carry). Literally, it means 'to carry something to' a place or person.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'aportar' and 'contribuir'?
They are very similar, but 'aportar' often implies bringing a specific item or idea to the table, whereas 'contribuir' is more general and often used with the preposition 'a' (contribuir a algo).
Is 'aporte' or 'aportación' better for 'contribution'?
'Aportación' is slightly more formal and common in Spain for abstract contributions, while 'aporte' is very common in Latin America for both money and ideas.
Can I use 'aportar' for physical movement, like carrying a box?
No. Although its root means 'to carry,' in modern Spanish it is strictly used for giving or contributing resources, ideas, or help.