emerger
“emerger” means “to emerge” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to emerge
Also: to surface
📝 In Action
La ballena emergió del agua de repente.
A2The whale emerged from the water suddenly.
Vimos el sol emerger entre las montañas.
B1We saw the sun emerge from between the mountains.
El submarino tardó varios minutos en emerger completamente.
B2The submarine took several minutes to surface completely.
to arise
Also: to stand out
📝 In Action
Nuevas dudas emergen después de leer el informe.
B2New doubts arise after reading the report.
Un gran líder emergió en tiempos de crisis.
B2A great leader emerged in times of crisis.
Muchos problemas pueden emerger si no planificamos bien.
C1Many problems can arise if we don't plan well.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: emerger
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the correct 'yo' form in the present tense?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'emergere', which combines 'ex-' (out) and 'mergere' (to dip or sink). It literally means 'to dip out' or rise from being sunk.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'emergencia' always mean a 911 situation?
In common speech, yes. However, in formal Spanish, it can also mean 'the act of emerging' or appearing, just like in English.
What is the difference between 'emerger' and 'surgir'?
They are very similar. 'Emerger' often implies coming out of a physical state (like water), while 'surgir' is used more often for abstract ideas popping up unexpectedly.
Is 'emerger' a common verb for beginners?
It is more of an intermediate (B1) verb. Beginners usually use 'salir' (to go out/come out) first.

