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How to Say "develop" in Spanish

English → Spanish

construir

kohn-stroo-EER/kon.stɾuˈiɾ/

verbB1general
Use 'construir' when 'develop' means to create, establish, or build something abstract, like a relationship, a plan, or a theory.
A person sitting at a table carefully fitting three distinct, brightly colored geometric puzzle pieces together to form a stable, balanced shape, symbolizing the creation of a theory or argument.

Examples

Es difícil construir confianza después de una mentira.

It is difficult to build trust after a lie.

El abogado construyó su argumento basándose en la evidencia.

The lawyer constructed his argument based on the evidence.

Necesitamos construir un futuro más sostenible.

We need to build a more sustainable future.

Abstract Use

This meaning uses construir exactly like the physical sense, but the 'object' is something non-physical, like an idea, a relationship, or a system.

revelar

reh-veh-LAHR/reβeˈlaɾ/

verbB1technical
Use 'revelar' specifically when 'develop' refers to the process of making a photograph visible from exposed film or print.
A white piece of photographic paper partially submerged in developing liquid, showing an image slowly appearing on its surface in a dimly lit setting.

Examples

Necesito ir a la tienda para revelar este rollo de fotos.

I need to go to the store to develop this roll of film.

El químico se usa para revelar las imágenes.

The chemical is used to develop the images.

Specific Context

This meaning is almost always used when discussing traditional photography (film, darkrooms, etc.), not digital photos.

Construir vs. Revelar

Learners often confuse 'construir' and 'revelar' because they don't realize 'revelar' has a very specific, technical meaning related to photography. Remember, you 'construir' a relationship, but you 'revelar' a photo.

Related Translations

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