Inklingo

How to Say "entail" in Spanish

English → Spanish

entraña

en-TRA-nyahenˈtɾaɲa

verbB2
Use 'entraña' when the 'entailment' refers to something inherent or a deep-seated consequence, often with a slightly more formal or serious tone.
A gear turning a series of other connected gears in a machine.

Examples

Este plan entraña muchos riesgos.

This plan entails many risks.

Ser padre entraña una gran responsabilidad.

Being a father involves a great responsibility.

La investigación entraña años de trabajo.

The investigation involves years of work.

No prepositions needed

Unlike some English phrases, you don't need a word like 'of' after 'entraña'. You just say 'entraña un riesgo' (it involves a risk).

The 'He/She/It' form

The word 'entraña' is the form of the verb 'entrañar' used for 'he,' 'she,' or 'it' in the present tense.

Formal vs Informal

Mistake: “Use 'tiene' in a formal business report.”

Correction: Use 'entraña'. While 'tiene' (has) is correct, 'entraña' sounds much more professional when talking about consequences.

traiga

TRY-gahˈtɾai̯.ɣa

verbB1
Use 'traiga' (from 'traer') when 'entail' means to bring about or cause a specific, often more immediate, outcome or problem.
A silver watering can pouring clear water onto dry brown soil, immediately resulting in a small, bright green plant sprout emerging.

Examples

Espero que esta decisión no traiga problemas.

I hope this decision doesn't cause problems.

La crisis traiga consigo un cambio social profundo.

The crisis may bring about a profound social change. (Used in a formal, uncertain context)

Figurative Use

In this context, 'traer' doesn't mean physical movement, but rather that one thing leads to or causes another, often used with abstract nouns like 'problems' or 'luck'.

Choosing Between 'Entraña' and 'Traiga'

Learners often confuse these by thinking 'entail' always implies a deep, inherent consequence. Remember that 'traiga' is more about actively bringing about a result, like causing problems, making it a more direct and common choice for everyday situations.

Related Translations

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