desencadenar
“desencadenar” means “to trigger” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to trigger
Also: to unleash, to set off
📝 In Action
La decisión del gobierno podría desencadenar una protesta nacional.
B2The government's decision could trigger a national protest.
Sus palabras desencadenaron una ola de críticas en las redes sociales.
C1His words unleashed a wave of criticism on social media.
El polen puede desencadenar una reacción alérgica fuerte.
B1Pollen can trigger a strong allergic reaction.
to unchain
Also: to let loose
📝 In Action
El prisionero logró desencadenar sus manos.
B1The prisoner managed to unchain his hands.
Es peligroso desencadenar al perro si hay extraños.
B1It is dangerous to unchain the dog if there are strangers.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "desencadenar" in Spanish:
to unchain→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: desencadenar
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the most likely to 'desencadenar' something?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Spanish prefix 'des-' (meaning 'un-' or 'to undo') and the noun 'cadena' (chain). It literally describes the action of removing chains.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'desencadenar' the same as 'causar'?
Almost, but 'desencadenar' implies a sequence of events or a powerful, sudden start. Use it when one small thing starts a big chain reaction.
Is it a regular verb?
Yes! It follows the standard pattern for verbs ending in -ar, making it easy to conjugate.
Can I use it for positive things?
Yes, though it's often used for problems (crises, wars, allergies), you can also 'desencadenar una alegría' (trigger joy) or a positive reaction.