How to Say "to breed" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to breed” is “criar” — use 'criar' when referring to the process of raising and nurturing animals, especially for commercial purposes or as livestock.
criar
kree-ARkɾiˈaɾ
Examples
En esta región crían ganado para exportación.
In this region, they breed cattle for export.
Mi tío cría gallinas y patos en su granja.
My uncle rears chickens and ducks on his farm.
engendrar
en-hen-DRARenxenˈdɾaɾ
Examples
La violencia solo engendra más violencia.
Violence only breeds more violence.
Su comportamiento engendra sospechas entre los vecinos.
His behavior gives rise to suspicion among the neighbors.
Esas políticas podrían engendrar una crisis financiera.
Those policies could produce a financial crisis.
Abstract Usage
This word is most often used to describe how one abstract feeling or situation automatically produces another. Think of it like a biological process where one thing 'gives birth' to a consequence.
A Regular Verb
Unlike many common Spanish verbs, this one is completely regular. It follows the standard pattern for '-ar' verbs in every tense.
Using it for electricity
Mistake: “El motor engendra electricidad.”
Correction: El motor genera electricidad. Use 'generar' for machines or physical energy; use 'engendrar' for life or abstract concepts.
reproducir
rreh-pro-doo-SEERreproðuˈθir
Examples
El artista intentó reproducir el estilo de Dalí.
The artist tried to reproduce Dali's style.
Es difícil reproducir este experimento en un laboratorio.
It is difficult to replicate this experiment in a lab.
Las bacterias se reproducen por división celular.
Bacteria reproduce through cell division.
Reflexive for Biology
When talking about animals or plants having babies, we usually add 'se' (reproducirse) to show the action happens within that group.
Abstract vs. Concrete Breeding
Related Translations
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.