combinar
“combinar” means “to combine” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to combine
Also: to mix
📝 In Action
Debes combinar la harina con el azúcar.
A1You must combine the flour with the sugar.
Combinamos diferentes estilos de música en el festival.
B1We combine different styles of music at the festival.
El arquitecto combinó madera y cristal en el diseño.
B2The architect combined wood and glass in the design.
to match
Also: to go with
📝 In Action
Esos zapatos no combinan con el vestido.
A2Those shoes don't match the dress.
Me gusta cómo combinaste la corbata y la camisa.
B1I like how you matched the tie and the shirt.
El azul combina con casi todo.
A2Blue goes with almost everything.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: combinar
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence correctly describes matching clothes?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'combinare', which means 'to join two by two'. It is formed by 'com-' (together) and 'bini' (two by two).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'combinar' irregular in any tense?
No, 'combinar' is a perfectly regular -ar verb. It follows the standard pattern in all tenses and moods.
Can I use 'combinar' for food and clothes?
Yes! It works for both. You can combine ingredients in a salad or combine colors in an outfit.
What is the difference between 'mezclar' and 'combinar'?
'Mezclar' usually implies a physical blend where things might lose their individual identity (like mixing water and flour), while 'combinar' often refers to items that work well together but remain separate (like a shirt and trousers).