Inklingo

How to Say "to lean" in Spanish

English → Spanish

apoyar

ah-poh-YAR/a.poˈʝaɾ/

verbA1general
Use 'apoyar' when describing the general action of resting an object against something for support, or when referring to oneself leaning on something.
A large, open hand firmly holding up a heavy wooden block from underneath, illustrating physical support.

Examples

Ella apoya la escalera contra la pared.

She leans the ladder against the wall.

Ella apoyó la escalera contra la pared.

She leaned the ladder against the wall.

Necesito algo para apoyar este libro pesado.

I need something to support this heavy book.

Direct Use

When using 'apoyar' to mean physical support, it acts directly on the object being held up (e.g., 'apoyar la mano' - to rest the hand).

apoya

/ah-POY-ah//aˈpoʝa/

verbB1general
Use 'apoya' specifically when referring to the present tense conjugation (él/ella/usted form) of the verb 'apoyar' when an object is placed against a surface for balance.
A wooden ladder resting against a sturdy brick wall.

Examples

Él apoya la escalera en la pared.

He leans the ladder against the wall.

Apoya tu cabeza en mi hombro.

Rest your head on my shoulder.

Physical Leaning

When using this word for leaning, you often use the word 'en' (on/in) or 'contra' (against) to show where the object is placed.

Confusing 'apoyar' and its conjugations

Learners often confuse the infinitive 'apoyar' with its conjugated forms like 'apoya'. Remember that 'apoyar' is the base verb, while 'apoya' is a specific present tense form for 'he/she/it leans'.

Related Translations

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