exhortar en 30 secondes
- Exhortar: To strongly encourage or urge someone to do something important.
- Think of a powerful plea or a fervent call to action.
- Common in religious, political, and formal contexts.
- Requires a strong sense of conviction from the speaker.
- Root Meaning
- From Latin 'exhortari', meaning 'to urge on, encourage'.
- Nuance
- Implies strong, earnest, and often passionate encouragement, going beyond mere suggestion.
- Contexts
- Religious sermons, political speeches, motivational talks, formal appeals.
El líder religioso exhortó a sus fieles a practicar la caridad con los más necesitados.
- Structure
- Exhortar + a + [person/people] + a + [infinitive verb/noun phrase]
- Conjugation
- Regular -ar verb conjugation patterns apply across all tenses and moods.
- Key Preposition
- The preposition 'a' is crucial after 'exhortar' when indicating the action or goal.
El activista exhortó a la multitud a luchar por sus derechos.
- Religious Settings
- Common in sermons and religious texts where spiritual leaders urge followers towards virtuous actions or beliefs.
- Political Discourse
- Used in speeches and appeals to mobilize citizens for a cause or to participate in civic life.
- Literature and Academia
- Found in formal writing, moralistic tales, and academic discussions on rhetoric and persuasion.
El Papa exhortó a los fieles a vivir con humildad y compasión.
- Overuse of Intensity
- Using "exhortar" for casual encouragement instead of "animar" or "pedir".
- Preposition Omission
- Forgetting the essential preposition 'a' after the verb and before the action.
- Confusing with Suggestion
- Using "exhortar" when a mere suggestion or advice is intended, rather than a strong plea.
Incorrecto: El amigo exhortó a su amigo a ir al cine. Correcto: El amigo animó a su amigo a ir al cine.
- Exhortar
- A strong, earnest, often moral or religious plea; a fervent urging.
- Animar
- General encouragement, to cheer up, to liven up. Broadest usage.
- Pedir
- To ask, to request. Direct and transactional.
- Aconsejar
- To advise, to counsel. Giving guidance.
- Instar
- To urge, to press. Often formal or strong personal demand.
How Formal Is It?
Le savais-tu ?
The root 'hortari' is related to the English word 'horticulture', which literally means 'the cultivation or gardening of plants'. The connection lies in the idea of 'nurturing' or 'encouraging growth', which is present in both urging someone towards an action and tending to plants.
Guide de prononciation
- Mispronouncing the 'x' as a 'sh' sound.
- Placing stress on the wrong syllable.
- Pronouncing the 'h' sound, which is silent.
- Over-articulating the 'r' sound in a way that sounds unnatural.
Niveau de difficulté
The CEFR A2 level indicates it's accessible for intermediate learners. Understanding its nuances requires attention to context and the strength of the appeal.
Requires careful attention to grammatical structures, especially the use of prepositions 'a' and correct verb conjugation.
Pronunciation is manageable, but using it appropriately in conversation requires understanding the register and intensity of the word.
Easily recognizable once familiar with the sound and common contexts.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
The use of the preposition 'a' after verbs of urging or influencing.
Exhortar a alguien a hacer algo. Similar to 'animar a alguien a hacer algo'.
Conjugation of regular -ar verbs in Spanish.
'Exhortar' follows the standard conjugation pattern: exhorto, exhortas, exhorta, exhortamos, exhortáis, exhortan.
Subjunctive mood after verbs expressing desire, doubt, or emotion.
Espero que me exhortes a continuar. (I hope you exhort me to continue.)
Passive voice construction with 'ser'.
El ciudadano fue exhortado a votar.
Use of infinitive after prepositions.
Exhortar a la acción (to action), exhortar a la reflexión (to reflection).
Exemples par niveau
Mamá me exhorta a comer verduras.
Mom urges me to eat vegetables.
Simple present tense, direct object pronoun 'me'.
El maestro exhorta a los niños a ser buenos.
The teacher urges the children to be good.
Present tense, preposition 'a' used before the direct object and the action.
Mi abuela me exhorta a rezar.
My grandmother urges me to pray.
Verb 'exhortar' used with a direct object pronoun and an infinitive.
El entrenador exhorta al equipo a jugar mejor.
The coach urges the team to play better.
Preposition 'a' used before 'el equipo' and 'a jugar'.
Papá me exhorta a limpiar mi cuarto.
Dad urges me to clean my room.
Simple present tense, direct object pronoun 'me'.
La maestra exhorta a los alumnos a leer más.
The teacher urges the students to read more.
Present tense, structure 'exhortar a [person] a [action]'.
El predicador exhorta a la gente a ser amable.
The preacher urges people to be kind.
Use of 'a' before the indirect object 'la gente'.
Ella me exhorta a estudiar para el examen.
She urges me to study for the exam.
Direct object pronoun 'me' and infinitive 'estudiar'.
El líder comunitario exhortó a los vecinos a participar en la limpieza del parque.
The community leader urged the neighbors to participate in the park cleanup.
Preterite tense of 'exhortar', structure with 'a' before the indirect object and the infinitive.
La madre exhortó a su hijo a ser responsable con sus deberes.
The mother urged her son to be responsible with his homework.
Preterite tense, 'a su hijo' and 'a ser responsable'.
El escritor exhorta a sus lectores a reflexionar sobre el tema.
The writer urges his readers to reflect on the topic.
Present tense, 'a sus lectores' and 'a reflexionar'.
El médico me exhortó a seguir una dieta saludable.
The doctor urged me to follow a healthy diet.
Preterite tense, direct object pronoun 'me', infinitive 'seguir'.
Los ancianos de la aldea exhortaron a los jóvenes a preservar sus tradiciones.
The village elders urged the young people to preserve their traditions.
Preterite tense, 'a los jóvenes' and 'a preservar'.
El profesor exhortó a la clase a prestar atención durante la lección.
The professor urged the class to pay attention during the lesson.
Preterite tense, 'a la clase' and 'a prestar'.
En su discurso, el político exhortó a los ciudadanos a votar.
In his speech, the politician urged the citizens to vote.
Preterite tense, 'a los ciudadanos' and 'a votar'.
Ella me exhortó a no rendirme ante las dificultades.
She urged me not to give up in the face of difficulties.
Preterite tense, negative infinitive 'no rendirme'.
El defensor de los derechos humanos exhortó a los gobiernos a tomar medidas urgentes contra la pobreza.
The human rights defender urged governments to take urgent measures against poverty.
Imperfect subjunctive 'exhortara' could be used in subordinate clauses expressing desire/doubt, but here preterite is used for a completed action.
La organización benéfica exhortó a los donantes a ser más generosos este año.
The charitable organization urged donors to be more generous this year.
Preterite tense, 'a los donantes' and 'a ser más generosos'.
El entrenador exhortó a su equipo a mantener la calma y jugar con inteligencia en la final.
The coach urged his team to remain calm and play intelligently in the final.
Preterite tense, multiple infinitives after 'a'.
Mis padres siempre me exhortan a buscar la verdad y la justicia.
My parents always exhort me to seek truth and justice.
Present tense, habitual action indicated by 'siempre'.
El sermón exhortó a la congregación a perdonar a sus enemigos.
The sermon exhorted the congregation to forgive their enemies.
Preterite tense, 'a la congregación' and 'a perdonar'.
El profesor exhortó a los estudiantes a cuestionar las fuentes de información.
The professor urged the students to question information sources.
Preterite tense, 'a los estudiantes' and 'a cuestionar'.
El activista exhortó al público a unirse a la manifestación pacífica.
The activist urged the public to join the peaceful demonstration.
Preterite tense, 'al público' and 'a unirse'.
Ella me exhortó a considerar todas las opciones antes de tomar una decisión importante.
She urged me to consider all options before making an important decision.
Preterite tense, direct object pronoun 'me', infinitive 'considerar'.
El Papa exhortó a los líderes mundiales a buscar soluciones pacíficas para los conflictos internacionales.
The Pope exhorted world leaders to seek peaceful solutions for international conflicts.
Preterite tense, formal language, 'a los líderes mundiales' and 'a buscar'.
El comité de ética exhortó a la empresa a implementar prácticas más sostenibles.
The ethics committee urged the company to implement more sustainable practices.
Preterite tense, 'a la empresa' and 'a implementar'.
En su carta, el mentor exhortó al joven artista a perseverar a pesar de las críticas.
In his letter, the mentor exhorted the young artist to persevere despite criticism.
Preterite tense, 'al joven artista' and 'a perseverar'.
Los científicos exhortan a la sociedad a tomar en serio el cambio climático.
Scientists urge society to take climate change seriously.
Present tense, implying ongoing calls to action. 'a la sociedad' and 'a tomar'.
El juez exhortó a los jurados a deliberar con imparcialidad y justicia.
The judge exhorted the jurors to deliberate with impartiality and justice.
Preterite tense, 'a los jurados' and 'a deliberar'.
El director de la escuela exhortó a los padres a colaborar activamente en la educación de sus hijos.
The school principal urged parents to actively collaborate in their children's education.
Preterite tense, 'a los padres' and 'a colaborar'.
El documento exhorta a todas las naciones a fortalecer la cooperación internacional.
The document urges all nations to strengthen international cooperation.
Present tense, referring to the content of a document. 'a todas las naciones' and 'a fortalecer'.
Ella me exhortó a reevaluar mis prioridades y a enfocarme en lo que realmente importa.
She urged me to reevaluate my priorities and focus on what truly matters.
Preterite tense, direct object pronoun 'me', compound infinitive phrase.
El filósofo existencialista exhortaba a sus discípulos a asumir la plena responsabilidad de sus elecciones.
The existentialist philosopher exhorted his disciples to assume full responsibility for their choices.
Imperfect tense, implying a repeated or continuous action in the past, or a state of being.
La encíclica papal exhorta a la Iglesia a ser una voz profética en el mundo moderno.
The papal encyclical exhorts the Church to be a prophetic voice in the modern world.
Present tense, referring to the content of the encyclical. 'a la Iglesia' and 'a ser'.
El líder del movimiento social exhortó a la juventud a no claudicar en su lucha por la justicia.
The leader of the social movement exhorted the youth not to give up in their fight for justice.
Preterite tense, 'a la juventud' and 'a no claudicar'.
Los historiadores exhortan a las nuevas generaciones a aprender de los errores del pasado.
Historians urge new generations to learn from the mistakes of the past.
Present tense, general call to action. 'a las nuevas generaciones' and 'a aprender'.
El comité de expertos exhortó a los gobiernos a invertir masivamente en energías renovables.
The expert committee urged governments to invest massively in renewable energy.
Preterite tense, 'a los gobiernos' and 'a invertir'.
El autor exhorta al lector a cuestionar sus propias preconcepciones.
The author exhorts the reader to question their own preconceptions.
Present tense, addressing the reader directly. 'al lector' and 'a cuestionar'.
El sermón exhortó a los creyentes a practicar la compasión activa en sus comunidades.
The sermon exhorted believers to practice active compassion in their communities.
Preterite tense, 'a los creyentes' and 'a practicar'.
Ella me exhortó a reexaminar mis motivaciones más profundas y a alinear mis acciones con mis valores.
She urged me to re-examine my deepest motivations and align my actions with my values.
Preterite tense, direct object pronoun 'me', compound infinitive phrase with emphasis on introspection.
El legado del pensador nos exhorta a una constante autocrítica y a la búsqueda incansable de la verdad.
The thinker's legacy exhorts us to constant self-criticism and the tireless pursuit of truth.
Present tense, referring to the enduring influence of a legacy. 'nos' and 'a una constante autocrítica'.
La historia de la humanidad, en su conjunto, parece exhortarnos a evitar la repetición de errores catastróficos.
The history of humanity, as a whole, seems to exhort us to avoid the repetition of catastrophic errors.
Present tense, using 'parece' to indicate an interpretation. 'nos' and 'a evitar'.
El discurso del premio Nobel exhortó a la comunidad científica a redoblar sus esfuerzos en la lucha contra las enfermedades incurables.
The Nobel laureate's speech exhorted the scientific community to redouble its efforts in the fight against incurable diseases.
Preterite tense, formal context, 'a la comunidad científica' and 'a redoblar'.
Los textos antiguos a menudo exhortan a los lectores a cultivar la virtud y la sabiduría.
Ancient texts often exhort readers to cultivate virtue and wisdom.
Present tense, referring to the general content of ancient texts. 'a los lectores' and 'a cultivar'.
El clamor de las generaciones pasadas nos exhorta a ser custodios responsables del planeta.
The cry of past generations exhorts us to be responsible custodians of the planet.
Present tense, personification of 'clamor'. 'nos' and 'a ser'.
El documento fundacional de la organización exhorta a sus miembros a adherirse a sus principios universales.
The organization's founding document exhorts its members to adhere to its universal principles.
Present tense, referring to the directive nature of the document. 'a sus miembros' and 'a adherirse'.
El espíritu de la época parece exhortarnos a una mayor empatía y comprensión intercultural.
The spirit of the age seems to exhort us towards greater empathy and intercultural understanding.
Present tense, using 'parece' for interpretation. 'nos' and 'a una mayor empatía'.
Ella me exhortó a trascender mis limitaciones autoimpuestas y a abrazar el potencial ilimitado de mi ser.
She urged me to transcend my self-imposed limitations and embrace the limitless potential of my being.
Preterite tense, direct object pronoun 'me', complex infinitive phrases conveying profound personal growth.
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
— I urge that... / I exhort that... This structure introduces a clause stating what the speaker is urging for.
Exhorto a que se tomen medidas inmediatas para resolver el problema.
— it exhorts us to... Used when something inanimate or a concept is the subject doing the urging.
La situación actual nos exhorta a ser más solidarios.
— he/she/it was exhorted to... Passive voice construction indicating someone received the exhortation.
El soldado fue exhortado a defender su país.
— I exhort you to... A direct and strong personal appeal.
Te exhorto a que no te rindas, tienes el potencial para lograrlo.
— to urge people to... A common way to address a group.
El líder religioso exhortó a la gente a practicar la bondad.
— to urge the youth to... Focusing on a specific demographic.
La campaña exhorta a los jóvenes a participar en política.
— to urge reflection. Encouraging deep thought or contemplation.
El artículo nos exhorta a la reflexión sobre nuestro impacto ambiental.
— to urge to action. A call for immediate or decisive steps.
El discurso del activista exhortó a la acción contra la injusticia.
— to urge unity. Encouraging solidarity and togetherness.
Ante la adversidad, el líder exhortó a la unidad del pueblo.
— to urge peace. A plea for the cessation of conflict.
Las naciones exhortan a la paz en la región.
Souvent confondu avec
'Instar' is very similar, meaning 'to urge' or 'to press'. While 'exhortar' often carries a moral or spiritual weight, 'instar' can be more about pressing for immediate action or a decision. 'Exhortar' is generally more about persuasion with conviction, while 'instar' can be more about demand or insistence.
'Animar' is a much broader term for 'to encourage' or 'to cheer up'. 'Exhortar' implies a much stronger, more earnest, and often more serious plea. You 'exhort' someone to do something important, while you 'animar' them to feel better or try something.
'Rogar' means 'to beg' or 'to implore'. It implies a plea made from a position of need or humility, whereas 'exhortar' often comes from a position of conviction or authority, aiming to persuade through strong appeal rather than humble request.
Facile à confondre
Both verbs convey a sense of urging someone to do something.
'Exhortar' often carries a stronger moral or spiritual connotation, implying a fervent appeal to conscience or duty. 'Instar' can be more about pressing for action or a decision, sometimes with a sense of urgency or insistence, and may be less focused on the moral aspect. For example, a religious leader might exhort followers to be charitable, while a manager might 'instar' an employee to complete a report by a deadline.
El Papa exhortó a la paz mundial. El comité instó a la empresa a presentar resultados.
Both verbs are related to encouragement.
'Animar' is a general term for encouragement, boosting spirits, or cheering someone up. It's much less intense than 'exhortar'. You 'animar' someone to try again or to feel better. 'Exhortar' is a strong, earnest plea, often with a moral or ethical dimension, urging someone to undertake a significant action. For example, you might 'animar' a friend to go to the cinema, but you would 'exhort' someone to fight for justice.
Te animo a que vengas. Te exhorto a que defiendas tus derechos.
Both verbs involve guiding someone's actions.
'Aconsejar' means to advise or give counsel, offering recommendations based on knowledge or experience. It's typically a suggestion or guidance. 'Exhortar', on the other hand, is a strong, impassioned urging or plea, often appealing to a sense of duty or morality. While an exhortation might contain advice, its core is a powerful call to action, not just a recommendation.
El doctor me aconsejó descansar. El líder me exhortó a cuidar mi salud.
Both aim to influence someone's actions or beliefs.
'Persuadir' is to convince someone through reasoning or argument. It focuses on changing their mind or belief. 'Exhortar' is a stronger, more direct, and often more emotional appeal to prompt action, frequently rooted in moral conviction. You might 'persuade' someone that a certain investment is good, but you would 'exhort' them to be honest.
El abogado intentó persuadir al jurado. El predicador exhortó a la congregación a la piedad.
Both involve urging someone regarding an action.
'Exhortar' is to urge someone *to do* something, often with a positive or moral imperative. 'Disuadir' is the opposite: to urge someone *not to do* something, often by presenting negative consequences or arguments against it. They are antonyms in terms of the direction of the urge.
Ella me exhortó a seguir adelante. Intentaron disuadirme de cometer ese error.
Structures de phrases
[Subject] exhorta a [object] a [infinitive verb].
El profesor exhorta a los estudiantes a leer el capítulo.
[Subject] me exhorta a [infinitive verb].
Mi madre me exhorta a comer sano.
[Subject] exhortó a [object] a [infinitive verb].
El líder exhortó a la gente a participar.
[Subject] exhorta a [abstract noun].
La situación exhorta a la cautela.
[Subject] exhorta a [object] a [compound infinitive phrase].
El comité exhorta a la empresa a reducir sus emisiones y a adoptar prácticas sostenibles.
Nos exhorta a [infinitive verb].
La crisis nos exhorta a ser más eficientes.
[Subject] exhortó a [object] a no [infinitive verb].
El mentor exhortó al joven a no rendirse.
El legado/espíritu de [noun] exhorta a [object] a [infinitive verb].
El espíritu de la época exhorta a la empatía intercultural.
Famille de mots
Noms
Verbes
Adjectifs
Apparenté
Comment l'utiliser
Moderate, more common in written and formal spoken contexts than in casual conversation.
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Using 'exhortar' for casual encouragement.
→
Using 'animar' or 'pedir'.
Overestimating the intensity of 'exhortar' and using it for simple encouragement, like inviting someone to a party, is a mistake. 'Exhortar' implies a much deeper, more serious plea. For casual invitations or encouragement, 'animar' (to encourage) or 'pedir' (to ask) are more appropriate.
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Forgetting the preposition 'a' after the person and the action.
→
'El profesor exhortó a los estudiantes a estudiar.'
The verb 'exhortar' typically requires the preposition 'a' before the person being exhorted and another 'a' before the infinitive verb describing the action. Omitting these can lead to ungrammatical sentences. Example: Incorrect: 'El entrenador exhortó el equipo ganar.' Correct: 'El entrenador exhortó al equipo a ganar.'
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Confusing 'exhortar' with 'disuadir'.
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'Exhortar' means to urge *to do*, while 'disuadir' means to urge *not to do*.
'Exhortar' is a call to action, encouraging someone to do something. 'Disuadir' is the opposite; it's persuading someone *not* to do something. Confusing these leads to conveying the opposite of the intended meaning.
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Misplacing the stress or mispronouncing the 'x'.
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Stress on the final syllable ('tar'), 'x' sounds like 'ks'.
Spanish pronunciation can be tricky. For 'exhortar', the stress is on the last syllable ('tar'), and the 'x' is pronounced with a 'k' sound followed by 's' (/ks/), not like 'sh' or 'z'. Incorrect pronunciation can hinder comprehension.
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Using 'exhortar' when 'aconsejar' (to advise) would be more appropriate.
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Use 'exhortar' for strong pleas, 'aconsejar' for advice.
'Aconsejar' is about giving recommendations or guidance. 'Exhortar' is a much stronger, more passionate urging. If you are simply suggesting a course of action based on experience, 'aconsejar' is better. If you are making a fervent appeal to someone's conscience or sense of duty, then 'exhortar' is appropriate.
Astuces
Register is Key
Remember that 'exhortar' is a strong verb with a formal and serious tone. Using it in a casual context can sound out of place or even comical. For everyday encouragement, opt for 'animar' or 'pedir'.
The Double 'a'
Pay close attention to the prepositions. When 'exhortar' is followed by a person and then an action, you typically need two 'a's: 'exhortar a [person] a [infinitive]'. Forgetting one can lead to grammatical errors.
Think of a Plea
When you hear 'exhortar', imagine someone making a heartfelt, passionate plea for something they deeply believe in. This mental image will help you recall its strong, earnest meaning.
Silent 'h', Strong 'tar'
Practice the pronunciation: the 'h' is silent, and the stress falls on the final syllable ('tar'). Focus on clear articulation of the 'x' as 'ks'.
Compare with Synonyms
Understanding the subtle differences between 'exhortar', 'instar', 'animar', and 'rogar' will significantly improve your vocabulary precision. Note the varying degrees of intensity and formality.
Write Your Own Exhortations
Try writing sentences where you 'exhort' characters to do things in different scenarios: a coach exhorting a team, a parent exhorting a child, a leader exhorting citizens. This active practice solidifies understanding.
Listen for the Tone
When listening to Spanish, pay attention to the tone of voice. A passionate, earnest, or commanding tone often accompanies the use of 'exhortar'.
Visual Mnemonic
Picture an 'X' marking a spot where a strong encouragement is needed. The 'tar' at the end could remind you of a 'star' you're urging someone to reach for.
Cultural Weight
Recognize that in many Spanish-speaking cultures, strong, persuasive speech (especially in religious or political contexts) is highly valued. 'Exhortar' fits this cultural emphasis perfectly.
Use in Formal Writing
If you are writing essays, formal letters, or speeches in Spanish, 'exhortar' can be an excellent verb to use when you want to convey a powerful call to action or a strong moral appeal.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Imagine an 'X' marking the spot where you need to 'exhort' someone to action. The 'tar' sound at the end can remind you of a 'star' you are urging them to reach for, like a guiding star or a goal.
Association visuelle
Picture a general on a battlefield, with a determined expression, raising their sword and 'exhorting' their troops to charge forward into battle. The intensity of the scene helps remember the strong urging aspect.
Word Web
Défi
Try to use 'exhortar' in a sentence describing a situation where someone needs to be strongly encouraged to do something important, like urging a friend to pursue their dream job despite their fears.
Origine du mot
The word 'exhortar' comes from the Latin verb 'exhortari'. This verb is formed by combining the prefix 'ex-' (meaning 'out' or 'forth') with 'hortari' (meaning 'to urge', 'to incite', or 'to encourage').
Sens originel : To urge onward, to incite, to encourage earnestly.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > SpanishContexte culturel
While 'exhortar' implies strong encouragement, it should be used judiciously. Overuse or inappropriate application can sound preachy, demanding, or patronizing. The context and relationship between the speaker and listener are crucial.
In English, 'exhort' carries a similar meaning but is often perceived as more formal or even slightly archaic compared to everyday usage. 'Urge' or 'strongly encourage' are more common alternatives.
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
Religious services and texts
- El sermón exhorta a la fe.
- Exhortamos a la oración constante.
- El líder exhorta a vivir según los mandamientos.
Political speeches and appeals
- El presidente exhorta a la unidad nacional.
- Exhortamos a los ciudadanos a ejercer su derecho al voto.
- El activista exhorta a la acción social.
Motivational talks and advice
- El mentor me exhortó a perseguir mis sueños.
- Te exhorto a que no te desanimes.
- Exhortamos a la perseverancia ante los desafíos.
Formal writing (essays, letters)
- El autor exhorta al lector a la reflexión.
- La carta exhorta a la prudencia en los negocios.
- Exhortamos a la consideración de este asunto.
Calls for social change or reform
- El grupo exhorta a la justicia para todos.
- Exhortamos a la protección del medio ambiente.
- La organización exhorta a la erradicación de la pobreza.
Amorces de conversation
"Have you ever been exhorted to do something important?"
"What's the strongest encouragement you've ever received?"
"When do you think it's appropriate to 'exhort' someone instead of just 'encouraging' them?"
"Can you think of a situation where a leader had to exhort their followers?"
"What's the difference between 'exhortar' and 'pedir' in Spanish?"
Sujets d'écriture
Describe a time you felt strongly urged to do something. How did it feel, and what was the outcome? Use 'exhortar' if applicable.
Write about a person who has 'exhorted' you to be better or to pursue a goal. What impact did their words have?
Imagine you are a leader of a community. What would you exhort your members to do for the common good, and why?
Reflect on a decision you had to make. Did anyone 'exhort' you towards a particular choice? How did you handle it?
Consider a cause you believe in. How would you 'exhort' others to support it?
Questions fréquentes
10 questions'Exhortar' implies a strong, earnest, and often morally significant plea or urging, carrying a weightier tone. 'Animar' is a more general term for encouragement, cheering someone up, or boosting their spirits, and is less intense. You 'exhort' someone to do something important like fight for justice, while you 'animar' someone to try again after failing.
It's appropriate to use 'exhortar' when you want to convey a strong, passionate, and sincere appeal for someone to undertake a significant action, especially if it has moral, ethical, religious, or civic importance. Think of leaders, mentors, or individuals deeply committed to a cause making a fervent plea.
The most common structure is 'exhortar a [person] a [infinitive verb]'. For example, 'El profesor exhortó a los estudiantes a estudiar.' You can also use direct object pronouns like 'me', 'te', 'nos': 'Ella me exhortó a intentarlo.' Sometimes, it's used with abstract nouns: 'La situación exhorta a la acción.'
It's not very common in casual, everyday conversation. In informal settings, people tend to use simpler verbs like 'animar' (to encourage), 'pedir' (to ask), or 'decir' (to tell). 'Exhortar' is more suited for formal speeches, written texts, or serious personal appeals.
The most direct translation is 'to exhort'. Other close English equivalents include 'to urge strongly', 'to implore', 'to admonish', or 'to passionately encourage', depending on the context and the desired intensity.
While 'exhortar' itself is about urging someone towards something, the context can imply a negative action if the speaker is urging someone to do something wrong. More commonly, 'exhortar' is used to encourage positive or morally upright actions. A related concept is 'disuadir', which means to urge someone *not* to do something.
Yes, common mistakes include mispronouncing the 'x' (it's like 'ks'), forgetting that the 'h' is silent, and placing the stress on the wrong syllable (it's on the 'tar').
Close synonyms include 'instar' (to urge, press), 'apremiar' (to urge, press for speed), and 'conminar' (to formally urge or warn). However, 'exhortar' often carries a stronger moral or emotional weight.
'Pedir' simply means 'to ask' or 'to request'. It's a neutral verb. 'Exhortar' is a much stronger verb, implying a passionate and earnest plea or urging, often with a sense of moral obligation, going far beyond a simple request.
Yes, it can. For example, 'El líder exhortó a la unidad' (The leader exhorted unity) or 'La situación exhorta a la reflexión' (The situation calls for reflection). In these cases, the abstract noun represents the goal or the concept being urged.
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Summary
Exhortar is a verb that signifies a deep, earnest, and often passionate urging or encouragement for someone to undertake a specific action, frequently carrying moral, religious, or civic weight. It's more than a simple suggestion; it's a powerful appeal to conscience and conviction. For example, 'El líder exhortó a la gente a luchar por la justicia' (The leader exhorted the people to fight for justice).
- Exhortar: To strongly encourage or urge someone to do something important.
- Think of a powerful plea or a fervent call to action.
- Common in religious, political, and formal contexts.
- Requires a strong sense of conviction from the speaker.
Register is Key
Remember that 'exhortar' is a strong verb with a formal and serious tone. Using it in a casual context can sound out of place or even comical. For everyday encouragement, opt for 'animar' or 'pedir'.
The Double 'a'
Pay close attention to the prepositions. When 'exhortar' is followed by a person and then an action, you typically need two 'a's: 'exhortar a [person] a [infinitive]'. Forgetting one can lead to grammatical errors.
Think of a Plea
When you hear 'exhortar', imagine someone making a heartfelt, passionate plea for something they deeply believe in. This mental image will help you recall its strong, earnest meaning.
Silent 'h', Strong 'tar'
Practice the pronunciation: the 'h' is silent, and the stress falls on the final syllable ('tar'). Focus on clear articulation of the 'x' as 'ks'.
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