demostrar
“demostrar” means “to prove” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to prove, to demonstrate
Also: to show
📝 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.
to show, to display
Also: to evidence
📝 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.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
🔀 Commonly Confused With
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "demostrar" in Spanish:
to demonstrate→to display→to evidence→to prove→to show→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: demostrar
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'demostrar' correctly in the sense of proving a fact?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin verb *dēmonstrāre*, meaning 'to point out' or 'to exhibit.' It combines the prefix *de-* (from/away) and *monstrāre* (to show).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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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-'.