esparcir
“esparcir” means “to scatter” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to scatter
Also: to spread, to strew
📝 In Action
El campesino empezó a esparcir las semillas por el campo.
B1The farmer began to scatter the seeds across the field.
No debes esparcir rumores si no estás seguro de que son ciertos.
B2You shouldn't spread rumors if you aren't sure they are true.
Esparció un poco de azúcar sobre el pastel.
A2She scattered a little sugar over the cake.
to relax
Also: to unwind
📝 In Action
Después de un examen tan difícil, necesito esparcirme un poco.
C1After such a difficult exam, I need to unwind a bit.
La música es una excelente manera de esparcirse.
B2Music is an excellent way to distract oneself.
Salimos al campo para esparcirnos y respirar aire puro.
C1We went to the countryside to relax and breathe fresh air.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: esparcir
Question 1 of 3
How do you say 'I scatter' in Spanish?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Derived from the Latin word 'spargere', which means to strew or sprinkle. It shares the same root as the English word 'sparse'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'esparcir' for spreading butter on bread?
Not really. For butter or cream, Spanish speakers use 'untar'. 'Esparcir' is for things that are loose, like crumbs, seeds, or sand.
Is 'esparcir' the same as 'sembrar'?
No. 'Sembrar' means to plant seeds with the intent of growing them. 'Esparcir' just means to scatter them around, whether you're planting them or just making a mess!
What is 'esparcimiento'?
It is the noun form of 'esparcirse' and refers to leisure time, hobbies, or recreation.