How to Say "to neutralize" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to neutralize” is “neutralizar” — use 'neutralizar' when you want to make something ineffective or bring it to a neutral state, often in a chemical, physical, or general sense..
neutralizar
/neh-oo-trah-lee-sahr//newtɾaliˈθaɾ/
Examples
El antiácido ayuda a neutralizar el exceso de ácido en el estómago.
The antacid helps to neutralize excess acid in the stomach.
El bicarbonato sirve para neutralizar la acidez del limón.
Baking soda is used to neutralize the acidity of the lemon.
Sus palabras lograron neutralizar la tensión en la sala.
His words managed to counteract the tension in the room.
La defensa del equipo neutralizó todos los ataques del rival.
The team's defense neutralized all of the opponent's attacks.
The Z to C Spelling Change
In the 'yo' form of the past tense (Preterite) and in all Present Subjunctive forms, the 'z' changes to 'c' when followed by an 'e'. This is done to keep the 's' sound consistent.
Direct Objects
This verb almost always takes a direct object—the thing that is being made harmless or cancelled out.
Spelling 'neutralicé' with a Z
Mistake: “Yo neutralizé el problema.”
Correction: Yo neutralicé el problema. (In Spanish, we avoid 'ze' and use 'ce' instead).
desactivar
/des-ak-tee-BAR//desaktiˈβaɾ/
Examples
Los expertos trabajaron para desactivar la bomba antes de que explotara.
The experts worked to defuse the bomb before it exploded.
El mediador logró desactivar el conflicto entre las dos empresas.
The mediator managed to defuse the conflict between the two companies.
Su sentido del humor ayudó a desactivar la tensión en la reunión.
His sense of humor helped defuse the tension in the meeting.
Abstract usage
When using 'desactivar' for social situations, it usually follows a person or an event that 'cools down' a hot topic.
Neutralizar vs. Desactivar
Related Translations
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