Inklingo

How to Say "it represents" in Spanish

English → Spanish

significa

/sig-nee-FEE-kah//siɣ.niˈfi.ka/

VerbB1General
Use 'significa' when 'it represents' refers to the symbolic meaning or definition of something, similar to 'it means'.
Two stylized figures holding hands under a large, glowing heart, symbolizing strong emotional importance or meaning.

Examples

La paloma blanca significa paz.

The white dove signifies peace.

Tu amistad significa mucho para mí.

Your friendship means a lot to me.

Para un atleta, ganar una medalla significa todo.

For an athlete, winning a medal means everything.

La paloma blanca significa la paz.

The white dove represents peace.

supone

/soo-POH-neh//suˈpo.ne/

VerbB2General
Use 'supone' when 'it represents' implies a consequence, a condition, or something that is assumed or entails another thing, similar to 'it involves' or 'it entails'.
A small, bright green sapling is planted in the earth. Visible beneath the soil, massive, complex, and deep roots extend widely, showing the large, necessary requirement or investment needed to sustain the small plant.

Examples

Este cambio de horario supone un esfuerzo adicional.

This change in schedule represents an additional effort.

Este nuevo proyecto supone una gran inversión de tiempo.

This new project involves a large investment of time.

Aprobar el examen supone un gran alivio para los estudiantes.

Passing the exam means a great relief for the students.

La crisis económica supone un desafío para el gobierno.

The economic crisis represents a challenge for the government.

Who's Doing the Action?

In this meaning, the subject (the thing doing the 'involving') comes before the verb. If the subject is plural, remember to change the verb: 'Estos proyectos suponen un riesgo' (These projects pose a risk).

Significa vs. Supone

Learners often confuse 'significa' and 'supone' by using 'significa' when the context implies a consequence or involvement. Remember, 'significa' is about meaning, while 'supone' is about implication or what something entails.

Related Translations

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