demostrar
/deh-mohs-TRAR/
to prove
Demostrar (to prove): The scientist presents clear evidence supporting the theory.
demostrar(verb)
to prove
?showing evidence or facts
,to demonstrate
?showing a point or theory
to show
?in the sense of providing proof
📝 In Action
El abogado pudo demostrar la inocencia de su cliente.
B1The lawyer was able to prove his client's innocence.
Necesitas demostrar que tienes suficiente experiencia para el puesto.
A2You need to demonstrate that you have enough experience for the position.
La ciencia ha demostrado que el ejercicio es bueno para la salud.
A2Science has proven that exercise is good for your health.
💡 Grammar Points
Stem-Changing Verb (O > UE)
In the present tense, the 'o' changes to 'ue' in all forms except for 'nosotros' (we) and 'vosotros' (you plural/Spain). This is a very common pattern in Spanish verbs.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Forgetting the Stem Change
Mistake: "Yo demostro (No stem change)"
Correction: Yo demuestro (Remember the 'ue' change in the present tense.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal vs. Informal Proof
Use demostrar when you mean 'prove with facts or logic.' Use mostrar (to show) when you mean 'point something out' or 'physically display something.'
Demostrar (to show/express): Showing happiness and positive attitude through open expression.
demostrar(verb)
to show
?to express feelings or attitude
,to display
?to exhibit a quality or skill
to evidence
?to make apparent
📝 In Action
Ella nunca demuestra sus emociones en público.
B1She never shows her emotions in public.
El equipo demostró gran habilidad durante el partido.
B2The team displayed great skill during the match.
Quiero que me demuestres respeto.
A2I want you to show me respect.
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'Demostrar' with Emotions
When talking about feelings, demostrar often takes the place of the simpler verb mostrar to emphasize that the feeling is clearly expressed or made visible to others.
⭐ Usage Tips
Emotional vs. Physical
If you want to say 'Show me the book,' use mostrar ('Muéstrame el libro'). If you want to say 'Show me your talent,' use demostrar ('Demuéstrame tu talento').
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: demostrar
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'demostrar' correctly in the sense of proving a fact?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'demostrar' and 'mostrar'?
While both mean 'to show,' *demostrar* is usually used for showing something abstract or complex, like evidence, skill, or emotions ('to prove'). *Mostrar* is generally used for showing something concrete or physical ('to point out' or 'to display').
Is 'demostrar' always a stem-changing verb?
No. The stem change (o > ue) only happens in certain tenses, specifically the Present Indicative, Present Subjunctive, and parts of the Imperative. In the Preterite, Imperfect, Future, and Conditional, the stem remains the regular 'demostr-'.