representa
/rre-pre-SÉN-ta/
represents
A heart symbolizes love, showing how one object represents an abstract concept.
📝 In Action
El color azul representa la calma en muchas culturas.
A2The color blue represents calmness in many cultures.
¿Qué representa para ti este símbolo?
B1What does this symbol stand for to you?
💡 Grammar Points
A Specific Verb Form
This word, 'representa,' is the normal present tense form used when the subject is 'he,' 'she,' 'it,' or the formal 'you' (usted), or when you are giving a command to a friend (tú imperative).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing the Verb Ending
Mistake: "Using 'represente' when talking about a fact or truth."
Correction: Use 'representa' for statements of fact. 'Represente' is a special form used for wishes, doubts, or indirect commands.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use for Art and Images
You can use 'representa' to talk about what a painting, sculpture, or diagram shows: 'El mural representa la historia de la ciudad.' (The mural depicts the history of the city.)
The figure speaking represents the interests of the group behind them.
📝 In Action
La junta directiva representa a todos los accionistas.
B1The board of directors represents all the shareholders.
Mi agente me representa en todas las negociaciones.
B2My agent represents me in all the negotiations.
💡 Grammar Points
Acting on Behalf of Others
When 'representa' means 'to act as an agent,' it is almost always followed by the person or entity being represented, usually introduced with the preposition 'a' if it's a person.
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Use
This meaning is often used when discussing politics, law, or business, where someone has a formal role as a delegate or spokesperson.
Three apples on the scale represent (are equivalent to) three oranges.
representa(Verb)
constitutes
?is equivalent to
,amounts to
?total amount
is
?formal way of saying 'is'
📝 In Action
Este gasto representa el 40% del presupuesto anual.
B2This expense constitutes 40% of the annual budget.
La falta de comunicación representa un serio obstáculo.
C1The lack of communication represents a serious obstacle.
💡 Grammar Points
Formal Equivalent of 'Ser'
In formal writing, 'representa' is often used instead of 'es' (is) when talking about abstract concepts, statistics, or challenges to sound more authoritative and precise.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: representa
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'representa' in the sense of 'constituting an amount or percentage'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'representa' the same as 'presenta'?
No, they are different! 'Representa' means 'stands for' or 'acts on behalf of.' 'Presenta' (from *presentar*) means 'he/she/it presents' or 'introduces' something.
Can I use 'representa' to give a command?
Yes, 'Representa' is the command form (imperative) used when speaking informally to a single person ('tú'). For example, 'Representa bien a tu equipo' (Represent your team well).