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How to Say "to prosper" in Spanish

English → Spanish

prosperar

/prohs-peh-RAHR//pɾospeˈɾaɾ/

verbB1general
Use 'prosperar' when talking about achieving financial or personal success, especially in a business or career context.
A lush, green tree growing out of a pile of gold coins.

Examples

Su nuevo negocio de café empezó a prosperar rápidamente.

His new coffee business began to prosper quickly.

Estas flores prosperan mejor a la sombra.

These flowers thrive better in the shade.

Una sociedad no puede prosperar sin justicia.

A society cannot thrive without justice.

A Regular Action Word

This verb follows the standard pattern for '-ar' verbs. Once you learn the basic endings, you can conjugate it easily!

Using the 'Subjunctive' Form

When you say you want or hope someone prospers, use the special 'prospere' form: 'Espero que prosperes' (I hope you prosper).

Prosperar vs. Éxito

Mistake: “Using 'tener éxito' to describe a growing plant.”

Correction: Use 'prosperar' for physical growth or flourishing development. 'Tener éxito' is mostly for achieving a specific goal.

florecer

/flo-reh-SEHR//floɾeˈseɾ/

verbB2general
Use 'florecer' to describe a period of significant growth or flourishing, often metaphorically, like the development of arts or culture.
A small green sapling growing tall and strong out of a pile of rich brown soil.

Examples

Las artes florecieron durante el Renacimiento.

The arts flourished during the Renaissance.

Su negocio de café empezó a florecer el año pasado.

His coffee business started to thrive last year.

Espero que nuestra amistad siga floreciendo.

I hope our friendship continues to flourish.

Metaphorical use

Just like in English, we use plant growth words to talk about success. This makes your Spanish sound more poetic and advanced.

Prosperar vs. Florecer

Learners often confuse 'prosperar' and 'florecer' because both imply growth. Remember that 'prosperar' is more directly about financial or personal success, while 'florecer' suggests a broader, more artistic or cultural flourishing.

Related Translations

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