Inklingo

How to Say "to demonstrate" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word forto demonstrateis demostraruse 'demostrar' when you need to prove a theory, an idea, or a fact, often in a more formal or logical context..

English → Spanish

demostrar

deh-mohs-TRAR/demoˈstɾaɾ/

verbA2
Use 'demostrar' when you need to prove a theory, an idea, or a fact, often in a more formal or logical context.
A friendly scientist character pointing confidently at a large, clear chart displaying a successful outcome, proving a point to a colleague who looks satisfied.

Examples

El estudio demostró que el ejercicio regular mejora la salud.

The study demonstrated that regular exercise improves health.

El abogado pudo demostrar la inocencia de su cliente.

The lawyer was able to prove his client's innocence.

Necesitas demostrar que tienes suficiente experiencia para el puesto.

You need to demonstrate that you have enough experience for the position.

La ciencia ha demostrado que el ejercicio es bueno para la salud.

Science has proven that exercise is good for your health.

Stem-Changing Verb (O > UE)

In the present tense, the 'o' changes to 'ue' in all forms except for 'nosotros' (we) and 'vosotros' (you plural/Spain). This is a very common pattern in Spanish verbs.

Forgetting the Stem Change

Mistake:Yo demostro (No stem change)

Correction: Yo demuestro (Remember the 'ue' change in the present tense.)

mostrar

mo-STRAR/mosˈtɾaɾ/

verbB1
Use 'mostrar' when you want to show or explain a process, present data, or indicate something visually.
A baker demonstrating how to knead dough on a wooden counter, explaining a process.

Examples

El gráfico muestra el aumento de las ventas.

The graph shows the increase in sales.

Los datos muestran que la economía está mejorando.

The data demonstrates that the economy is improving.

Debemos mostrar respeto por las reglas.

We must show respect for the rules.

El informe mostró resultados inesperados.

The report proved/showed unexpected results.

Demostrar vs. Mostrar

Learners often confuse 'demostrar' and 'mostrar' because both can mean 'to show'. Remember that 'demostrar' is typically used for proving something abstract or factual, while 'mostrar' is more about presenting or explaining something concrete or a process.

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