How to Say "to commend" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “to commend” is “encomendar” — B1 level.
Examples
Mi jefe me encomendó la dirección del proyecto.
My boss entrusted me with the management of the project.
Ella encomendó sus hijos al cuidado de su madre.
She entrusted her children to her mother's care.
Antes de la cirugía, el paciente se encomendó a Dios.
Before the surgery, the patient commended himself to God.
The Stem Change
This verb is a 'boot verb.' The 'e' in the middle changes to 'ie' in all forms where you emphasize that syllable (yo encomiendo), but it stays 'e' when the emphasis is on the ending (nosotros encomendamos).
Using 'se' for protection
When you use the reflexive 'se' (encomendarse), it usually means you are asking for protection or help from a higher power or someone influential.
Confusing with 'Command'
Mistake: “Using 'encomendar' to mean 'to give an order' like 'command'.”
Correction: Use 'mandar' or 'ordenar' for simple commands. 'Encomendar' is for giving a responsibility or task.
Related Translations
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