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How to Say "to express" in Spanish

English → Spanish

expresar

eks-preh-SAHR/eks.pɾeˈsaɾ/

VerbA1General
Use 'expresar' when you want to communicate your thoughts, opinions, or emotions directly, like gratitude or an idea.
A colorful illustration of a child expressing joy by offering a bright red flower to an adult. The child is smiling widely.

Examples

Quiero expresar mi gratitud por tu ayuda.

I want to express my gratitude for your help.

Ella expresó una opinión muy fuerte sobre el tema.

She stated a very strong opinion on the topic.

Es difícil expresar exactamente lo que siento.

It is difficult to express exactly what I feel.

Regular -AR Verb

This verb follows the simplest pattern for Spanish verbs ending in -ar. Just remove the -ar and add the standard endings (like -o, -as, -a, etc.).

Transitive Use

When you use 'expresar,' you almost always need to say what you are expressing (the direct object): expresar [algo].

mostrar

mo-STRAR/mosˈtɾaɾ/

VerbB2General
Use 'mostrar' when you want to convey feelings or a state of being, often by how you behave or appear to others, rather than stating them directly.
A character standing tall and confident, projecting an image of cheerfulness with a wide, bright smile.

Examples

Ella siempre se muestra muy amable con los clientes.

She always appears/shows herself to be very kind to the clients.

Después de la pelea, él se mostró arrepentido.

After the fight, he appeared remorseful.

Es difícil mostrar alegría cuando estás triste.

It is difficult to express joy when you are sad.

Using the Reflexive Form (Mostrarse)

When you use 'mostrarse' (with 'me, te, se, nos, os'), you are describing how a person or thing presents itself to the world, often followed by an adjective: Se muestra feliz (He appears happy).

Expresar vs. Mostrar

Learners often confuse 'expresar' and 'mostrar' when talking about feelings. Remember that 'expresar' is for directly stating your emotions or ideas, while 'mostrar' is about how you outwardly present or convey those feelings through actions or demeanor.

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