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How to Say "to elaborate" in Spanish

English → Spanish

ampliar

ahm-plee-AHRamˈpljaɾ

verbB1general
Use 'ampliar' when you need to provide more information or details about something that has already been mentioned or asked.
A simple drawing of a flower next to a much more detailed drawing of the same flower with many petals and leaves.

Examples

¿Podría ampliar su respuesta?

Could you elaborate on your answer?

El director amplió los detalles del nuevo proyecto.

The director expanded on the details of the new project.

Formal Requests

In a professional setting, asking someone to 'ampliar' is a polite way to say 'tell me more' or 'explain this better'.

desarrollar

deh-sah-rroh-YARdesaroˈʝar

verbB2general
Use 'desarrollar' when you are explaining a theory, an idea, or a topic in detail, often involving a process of growth or evolution over time.
A person in an apron carefully painting a wooden birdhouse on a table.

Examples

El científico desarrolló su teoría durante años.

The scientist elaborated his theory over years.

Ella desarrolla su trabajo con mucha profesionalidad.

She carries out her work with great professionalism.

Action vs. Growth

In formal contexts, this verb describes the act of 'doing' or 'performing' a professional duty.

Ampliar vs. Desarrollar

The most common mistake is using 'ampliar' when you mean to explain a full theory. Remember, 'ampliar' is for adding details to something existing, while 'desarrollar' is for building out a concept from the ground up.

Related Translations

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