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How to Say "feeds" in Spanish

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alimenta

/ah-lee-MEN-tah//aliˈmenta/

verbA2general
Use 'alimenta' when referring to the act of giving food to people or animals.
A small bird being fed seeds from a person's open hand.

Examples

Ella alimenta a los pájaros en el parque.

She feeds the birds in the park.

Esta batería alimenta todo el sistema.

This battery powers the whole system.

Su actitud alimenta el conflicto.

His attitude fuels the conflict.

One word, two roles

'Alimenta' can be a statement ('He feeds') or a direct command to a friend ('Feed!'). Context tells you which is which.

Using 'Se'

When talking about what an animal eats as a habit, we say 'se alimenta de' (it feeds on) instead of just 'come' (it eats).

Feed a Person vs. Feed a Feeling

Mistake: “Only using it for food.”

Correction: Use it for batteries, power, and emotions too! It's much broader than just 'eating'.

mantiene

man-tee-EH-neh/manˈtje.ne/

verbB1formal
Use 'mantiene' when the meaning is to support or provide the necessities for someone, especially financially.
A smiling adult placing coins into a child's piggy bank, symbolizing financial support.

Examples

Su trabajo mantiene a toda su familia.

His job supports his entire family.

El gobierno mantiene un programa de ayuda social.

The government maintains (funds) a social aid program.

Feeding vs. Supporting

Learners often confuse 'alimenta' and 'mantiene' by using 'alimenta' for financial support. Remember that 'alimenta' specifically means to give food, while 'mantiene' covers broader support, including financial means.

Related Translations

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