descartar
“descartar” means “to discard” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to discard, to throw away
Also: to dump
📝 In Action
Tienes que descartar las cartas que no quieras.
A2You have to discard the cards you don't want.
He descartado toda la ropa que ya no me queda.
B1I have thrown away all the clothes that no longer fit me.
Es mejor descartar el papel en el contenedor azul.
B1It is better to discard the paper in the blue bin.
to rule out, to dismiss
Also: to exclude
📝 In Action
El médico descartó una fractura tras ver la radiografía.
B1The doctor ruled out a fracture after seeing the X-ray.
No podemos descartar ninguna posibilidad todavía.
B1We cannot rule out any possibility yet.
Han descartado mi propuesta por ser demasiado cara.
B2They have dismissed my proposal for being too expensive.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "descartar" in Spanish:
to discard→to dismiss→to dump→to exclude→you dismiss→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: descartar
Question 1 of 3
If a doctor says 'He descartado la infección', what does it mean?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the prefix 'des-' (meaning removal) and the word 'carta' (card). Originally, it meant to get rid of a card from one's hand during a game.
First recorded: 16th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'descartar' for people?
Generally, no. You use it for things, ideas, or options. If you mean to 'reject' a person, use 'rechazar'.
What is the difference between 'descartar' and 'tirar'?
'Tirar' is specifically about the physical act of throwing something in the trash. 'Descartar' is more about the decision to get rid of it or to stop considering it as an option.
Is 'descartable' used in all Spanish-speaking countries?
Yes, but in Spain, people often use 'de usar y tirar' (use and throw away), whereas 'descartable' is very common in Latin America.