Inklingo

How to Say "to unveil" in Spanish

English → Spanish

desvelar

/des-be-LAR//desβeˈlaɾ/

verbB1general
Use 'desvelar' when the act of unveiling involves physically removing a cover from something, like a statue, a painting, or a new product, to reveal it to the public.
A hand pulling back a heavy red velvet curtain to show a glowing treasure chest.

Examples

El artista desvelará su última obra maestra en la galería esta noche.

The artist will unveil his latest masterpiece at the gallery tonight.

El autor va a desvelar su nueva novela esta tarde.

The author is going to reveal his new novel this afternoon.

La policía desveló el misterio del robo.

The police uncovered the mystery of the robbery.

Al desvelar la placa, todos aplaudieron.

When the plaque was unveiled, everyone cheered.

Think of it as 'Un-veiling'

In Spanish, 'velo' is a veil. Adding 'des-' is like taking the veil off to show what is underneath.

Desvelar vs. Revelar

Mistake: “Using 'desvelar' for developing photos.”

Correction: Use 'revelar' for photos. Use 'desvelar' for secrets or physical unveiling.

inaugurar

/ee-now-goo-RAR//inauɡuˈɾaɾ/

verbB1formal
Use 'inaugurar' when the act of unveiling is part of a formal opening ceremony for a new public space, building, or event, like a shopping center or a monument.
A person cutting a wide red ribbon with large golden scissors in front of a new building entrance.

Examples

El alcalde inaugurará el nuevo parque el sábado.

The mayor will inaugurate the new park on Saturday.

Mañana van a inaugurar el nuevo centro comercial.

Tomorrow they are going to open the new shopping center.

El presidente inauguró la exposición de arte ayer.

The president inaugurated the art exhibition yesterday.

Espero que inauguren la biblioteca pronto.

I hope they open the library soon.

Opening for the first time

Unlike 'abrir' which can be used for windows or daily shop openings, 'inaugurar' is only used for the very first official opening ceremony.

It's an action on something

This verb always needs an object. You always 'inaugurar' something, like a park, a bridge, or a season.

Using it for everyday actions

Mistake: “Inauguro la puerta de mi casa.”

Correction: Abro la puerta de mi casa. (Unless you are having a formal ceremony for your new front door!)

Desvelar vs. Inaugurar

Learners often confuse 'desvelar' and 'inaugurar' by using 'desvelar' for formal openings of buildings or public spaces. Remember that 'inaugurar' specifically refers to the official opening ceremony of such places, while 'desvelar' is more about the physical act of revealing an object.

Related Translations

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