impulsar
“impulsar” means “to boost” in Spanish (economic or social growth).
to boost, to promote
Also: to drive, to propel
📝 In Action
El gobierno quiere impulsar el empleo juvenil.
B1The government wants to boost youth employment.
Su ambición lo impulsó a estudiar dos carreras.
B2His ambition drove him to study two degrees.
El motor impulsa las hélices del avión.
C1The engine propels the airplane's propellers.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "impulsar" in Spanish:
to propel→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: impulsar
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence correctly uses 'impulsar' in a business context?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'impulsare', which is a frequentative form of 'impellere' (to drive forward or strike against).
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'impulsar' the same as 'empujar'?
Not exactly. 'Empujar' is for the physical act of pushing (like a door or a person). 'Impulsar' is for giving momentum or promoting something (like an economy, a project, or a rocket).
Does 'impulsar' always need the preposition 'a'?
Only when you are driving someone *to do* something. For example: 'Me impulsó a estudiar' (It drove me to study). If you are boosting something like the economy, no 'a' is needed: 'Impulsar la economía'.
Can I use 'impulsar' for physical objects?
Yes, but usually in a scientific or mechanical sense, like a motor 'propelling' a car or wind 'propelling' a boat.