sobresalir
“sobresalir” means “to stand out” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to stand out
Also: to excel
📝 In Action
Ella siempre logra sobresalir en sus clases de arte.
B1She always manages to stand out in her art classes.
Es difícil sobresalir en un mercado tan competitivo.
B2It is difficult to excel in such a competitive market.
Su talento para la música la hace sobresalir del resto.
B1Her talent for music makes her stand out from the rest.
to stick out
Also: to protrude
📝 In Action
Había un clavo que sobresalía de la pared.
B2There was a nail sticking out of the wall.
El balcón de la casa sobresale hacia la calle.
C1The balcony of the house protrudes toward the street.
Ten cuidado con esa rama que sobresale del camino.
B2Be careful with that branch sticking out from the path.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: sobresalir
Question 1 of 3
Which form of 'sobresalir' is correct for 'I stand out'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the prefix 'sobre-' (meaning over or above) and the verb 'salir' (to go out). It literally means to emerge or go out over the rest.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'sobresalir' an irregular verb?
It is mostly regular, but it has some 'g' changes in the 'Yo' form and the subjunctive, just like the verb 'salir'.
What is the difference between 'sobresalir' and 'destacar'?
They are very similar. 'Sobresalir' emphasizes being 'above' the average or literally sticking out, while 'destacar' is more about being noticeable or emphasized.
Can I use 'sobresalir' for physical objects?
Yes! It's perfectly natural to use it for things like balconies, nails, or branches that stick out from a flat surface.