respaldar
“respaldar” means “to support” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to support, to back up
Also: to endorse, to guarantee
📝 In Action
Mis padres siempre respaldan mis decisiones.
B1My parents always support my decisions.
El presidente respaldó el nuevo plan de salud.
B2The president endorsed the new health plan.
No tienes pruebas que respalden lo que dices.
B2You don't have evidence to back up what you're saying.
to back up
📝 In Action
Es importante respaldar tus archivos en un disco externo.
B1It is important to back up your files on an external drive.
He respaldado toda la base de datos.
B2I have backed up the entire database.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: respaldar
Question 1 of 3
Which verb is more formal when saying you support a political candidate?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Derived from the Spanish word 'espalda' (back). It comes from the idea of putting your back behind someone to give them strength or protection.
First recorded: 16th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'apoyar' and 'respaldar'?
'Apoyar' is general and can be used for physical support or emotional help. 'Respaldar' is more about validation, endorsement, or digital backups.
Does 'respaldar' mean leaning your back against something?
No, that would be 'apoyar la espalda' or 'recostarse'. 'Respaldar' is about the act of supporting an idea or saving data.
Is 'respaldar' a common word?
Yes, especially in news, politics, business, and technology.