How to Say "to reproduce" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to reproduce” is “reproducir” — use this word when you mean to create a copy or imitation of something, like an artwork, a sound, or a document..
reproducir
/rreh-pro-doo-SEER//reproðuˈθir/
Examples
El reproductor de CD puede reproducir archivos MP3.
The CD player can play MP3 files.
El artista intentó reproducir el estilo de Dalí.
The artist tried to reproduce Dali's style.
Es difícil reproducir este experimento en un laboratorio.
It is difficult to replicate this experiment in a lab.
Las bacterias se reproducen por división celular.
Bacteria reproduce through cell division.
Reflexive for Biology
When talking about animals or plants having babies, we usually add 'se' (reproducirse) to show the action happens within that group.
propagar
/pro-pa-GAR//pɾopaˈɣaɾ/
Examples
La noticia se propagó rápidamente por las redes sociales.
The news spread quickly through social media.
El virus se puede propagar por el aire.
The virus can spread through the air.
El incendio se propagó rápidamente debido al fuerte viento.
The fire spread quickly due to the strong wind.
Aprendimos a propagar las plantas usando esquejes.
We learned to propagate plants using cuttings.
Using 'Se' for Automatic Spreading
If a fire or disease spreads on its own, we add 'se' (El fuego se propagó). This shows the action happened without a specific person doing it.
Spread vs. Paint
Mistake: “No digas 'propagar mantequilla'.”
Correction: For spreading butter or jam on bread, use 'untar' or 'extender'. 'Propagar' is for things that multiply or move through a medium (like air or a crowd).
replicar
/reh-plee-KAHR//repliˈkaɾ/
Examples
Es crucial que otros laboratorios puedan replicar este experimento.
It is crucial that other laboratories can replicate this experiment.
Los científicos no pudieron replicar los resultados del estudio.
Scientists were not able to replicate the results of the study.
Queremos replicar este modelo de negocio en otros países.
We want to replicate this business model in other countries.
Es una máquina capaz de replicar cualquier pieza.
It is a machine capable of replicating any part.
Cognate Alert
This meaning is a perfect cognate of the English word 'to replicate.' It functions exactly the same way when talking about data, art, or actions.
Don't use it for photocopies
Mistake: “Tengo que replicar este documento.”
Correction: Tengo que fotocopiar este documento. 'Replicar' is for complex processes or exact duplication of results, not simple paperwork.
recrear
/reh-kreh-ahr//re.kɾeˈaɾ/
Examples
El museo recrea la vida cotidiana de los romanos.
The museum recreates daily life of the Romans.
La película recrea la vida en el siglo XIX.
The movie recreates life in the 19th century.
Intentamos recrear la receta de mi abuela.
We are trying to recreate my grandmother's recipe.
El arquitecto recreó el estilo gótico en el nuevo edificio.
The architect reproduced the Gothic style in the new building.
A Friendly Regular Verb
This verb follows the standard pattern for verbs ending in -ar, like 'hablar'. No surprises here!
Don't confuse with 'reaccionar'
Mistake: “El actor recreó mal a la noticia.”
Correction: El actor reaccionó mal a la noticia. 'Recrear' means to make something again, not to react.
General Copying vs. Specific Spreading
Related Translations
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.