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A2 verb #3,000 most common 9 min read

reparar

Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips reparar in 30 Seconds

Explanation reparar in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn 'reparar' as a synonym for 'to fix.' It is most commonly used for physical objects like toys, bikes, or simple household items. At this stage, you don't need to worry about the abstract meanings. Focus on using it in the present tense, such as 'Yo reparo mi bicicleta' (I fix my bike). It is a regular verb, so it follows the standard -ar conjugation pattern. You might also see it in simple signs at shops. It is a useful word for basic survival Spanish, especially if you need to ask someone to fix something for you in a hotel or a rental apartment. Keep your sentences short and direct.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'reparar' in more varied contexts, including the past and future tenses. You can use it to describe common household problems or tasks. You might say, 'Ayer reparé la mesa' (Yesterday I fixed the table). This level also introduces the idea of 'reparar' in professional settings, like a mechanic fixing a car. You should also start to recognize the noun form 'reparación.' You are beginning to distinguish between 'reparar' (to fix something broken) and 'arreglar' (which can also mean to tidy up). You can now handle basic conversations about things that aren't working and need repair.

At the B1 level, you should start using 'reparar' in more abstract ways. This includes 'reparar el daño' (to repair the damage) in a moral or emotional sense. You are also introduced to the important construction 'reparar en algo,' which means 'to notice something.' This is a significant step up in your Spanish proficiency. You will use it to describe observations: 'Reparé en que el clima estaba cambiando' (I noticed that the weather was changing). You should also be comfortable with the passive voice 'se reparan,' commonly seen on business signs. Your vocabulary is becoming more nuanced, allowing you to choose 'reparar' for technical contexts and 'arreglar' for informal ones.

At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of the idiomatic uses of 'reparar.' The phrase 'sin reparar en gastos' (sparing no expense) should become part of your active vocabulary. You can use 'reparar' to discuss social issues, such as 'reparar a las víctimas' (to compensate victims), which is common in news and political discourse. You understand the subtle difference between 'reparar' and more formal synonyms like 'subsanar' or 'indemnizar.' You can use the verb in complex sentence structures, including the subjunctive: 'Espero que reparen el puente pronto' (I hope they repair the bridge soon). Your usage reflects a deeper understanding of Spanish register and tone.

At the C1 level, 'reparar' becomes a tool for precise expression in professional and literary contexts. You use 'reparar en' to describe deep observations or reflections. You are aware of the noun 'reparo' meaning 'objection' or 'qualm' and can use it naturally: 'No puso ningún reparo al plan' (He had no objections to the plan). You can distinguish between 'reparar' and 'resarcir' in legal or formal writing. Your ability to use the verb across its various meanings—physical, moral, and intellectual—is seamless. You might also encounter archaic or highly literary uses in classical Spanish literature and understand them within their historical context.

At the C2 level, you possess a near-native mastery of 'reparar.' You can use it in all its nuances, including the most subtle literary applications. You are familiar with rare idioms like 'sin reparar en mientes' and can use the verb to discuss philosophical concepts of restoration and memory. You can write technical manuals or legal documents using 'reparar' and its derivatives with perfect accuracy. You understand the etymological roots of the word and how they influence its various meanings in modern Spanish. Your command of the word allows you to play with its meanings in creative writing or high-level debate, using it to evoke specific emotions or professional authority.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

reparar in 30 Seconds

A regular -ar verb primarily meaning 'to repair' or 'to fix' physical objects like machinery, electronics, or furniture.
Used with the preposition 'en' to mean 'to notice' or 'to observe' something subtle or unexpected.
Commonly used in legal and moral contexts to mean 'to compensate' or 'to make amends' for damage caused.
Featured in the popular idiom 'sin reparar en gastos', which translates to 'sparing no expense' in English.

The Spanish verb reparar is a versatile and essential word that every learner should master early in their journey. At its core, the word means 'to repair' or 'to fix' something that is broken, damaged, or not functioning correctly. However, its utility extends far beyond the mechanical world of tools and engines. In everyday Spanish, you will encounter this verb in contexts ranging from fixing a leaky faucet to mending a broken relationship or even noticing a small detail that others might have missed. Understanding the breadth of reparar requires looking at its three primary functional branches: physical restoration, moral or legal compensation, and intellectual observation.

Physical Restoration: This is the most common use, equivalent to 'to fix' or 'to mend.' It applies to cars, appliances, clothes, and infrastructure. If a technician is working on your internet connection, they are there to reparar the line.

El mecánico tuvo que reparar el motor porque el coche no arrancaba esta mañana.

Beyond the physical, reparar is used in the sense of 'reparation.' This occurs when someone tries to make up for a mistake or a slight. If you hurt someone's feelings, you might seek to reparar el daño (repair the damage). In legal contexts, this refers to 'indemnizar' or compensating a victim.

The Intellectual Use: When followed by the preposition 'en,' reparar en means 'to notice' or 'to observe.' It suggests a level of attentiveness where you realize something is there. For example, 'No reparé en su presencia' means 'I didn't notice his presence.'

Al entrar en la habitación, no reparé en que las ventanas estaban abiertas.

This verb is also central to the phrase sin reparar en gastos, which means 'sparing no expense.' It implies that the person is so focused on the goal that they don't even 'notice' or 'pay attention' to how much money they are spending. This is a common phrase in movies or literature when describing a lavish party or a grand project. In summary, use reparar when you want to sound precise about fixing objects, sincere about making amends, or observant about details in your environment. It is a foundational pillar of the Spanish vocabulary that bridges the gap between manual labor and intellectual awareness.

Formal Contexts: In official reports, 'reparar' is preferred over 'arreglar.' For instance, 'reparar la infraestructura' sounds much more official than 'arreglar la calle.'

Es necesario reparar las grietas del edificio antes del próximo invierno.

Using reparar correctly depends heavily on the object of the verb. If you are fixing a physical object, the structure is straightforward: [Subject] + [Conjugated Verb] + [Object]. For example, 'Yo reparo el reloj.' If you are using it to mean 'notice,' you must include the preposition 'en': [Subject] + [Conjugated Verb] + 'en' + [Object].

Physical Object Focus: When talking about machines, appliances, or clothes. Example: 'Ella sabe reparar ordenadores viejos' (She knows how to fix old computers).

¿Puedes reparar esta silla? Se le ha roto una pata y es muy antigua.

In more advanced usage, you might see reparar used reflexively in older literature, though this is rare today. Most commonly, you will see it in the passive voice with 'se' when the focus is on the object being fixed rather than who is doing the fixing: 'Se reparan calzados' (Shoes are repaired here).

Abstract and Moral Use: Used when talking about reputations, feelings, or justice. Example: 'Queremos reparar el daño causado a la comunidad' (We want to repair the damage caused to the community).

El gobierno prometió reparar a las víctimas del conflicto con nuevas leyes de vivienda.

Another interesting construction is using 'reparar' to mean 'to consider' or 'to stop and think.' This is often used in the negative to describe someone acting impulsively: 'Actuó sin reparar en las consecuencias' (He acted without considering/noticing the consequences).

Observation Focus: Used to describe the act of noticing subtle things. Example: 'Nadie reparó en su tristeza' (No one noticed her sadness).

Solo un experto podría reparar en los pequeños fallos de esta pintura falsificada.

You will hear reparar in a variety of real-world settings in Spanish-speaking countries. One of the most common places is at a workshop or service center. If you go to a 'taller mecánico' (mechanic shop) or a 'servicio técnico' (technical service), the word will be everywhere. Signs might read 'Reparación de móviles' (Mobile phone repair) or 'Reparamos todo tipo de electrodomésticos' (We repair all types of appliances).

In the News: Journalists often use 'reparar' when discussing infrastructure projects or social justice. You might hear: 'El ayuntamiento va a reparar el puente principal' (The city council is going to repair the main bridge).

La noticia dice que van a reparar las tuberías de toda la calle la próxima semana.

In literature and high-level conversation, 'reparar en' is a common way to describe a character's internal realization. For instance, in a novel, a character might 'reparar en el brillo de los ojos de alguien' (notice the sparkle in someone's eyes). This usage elevates the language and makes it more descriptive than simply using 'ver' (to see) or 'mirar' (to look).

Customer Service: When something you bought is faulty, the clerk might say: 'Podemos repararlo o darle uno nuevo' (We can repair it or give you a new one).

Si el producto tiene garantía, la empresa tiene la obligación de reparar cualquier defecto de fábrica.

In sports, especially soccer (fútbol) commentary, you might hear about players 'reparando un error' (fixing a mistake) after a bad pass or a defensive lapse. It signifies making a recovery effort to nullify the previous error.

DIY and Home Improvement: On YouTube channels or blogs about 'bricolaje' (DIY), 'reparar' is the standard verb for fixing walls, furniture, or plumbing.

Hoy vamos a aprender cómo reparar una persiana que se ha quedado atascada.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with reparar is confusing it with 'arreglar.' While they are synonyms, 'arreglar' is much broader. You can 'arreglar' your room (tidy it up), but you wouldn't usually 'reparar' your room unless there was structural damage to the walls. 'Reparar' implies that something was broken and needs to be returned to its original state.

The Preposition Trap: Forgetting the 'en' when you mean 'to notice.' Saying 'Reparé el error' means you fixed the error. Saying 'Reparé EN el error' means you noticed the error.

Incorrect: No reparé que ella estaba llorando. Correct: No reparé en que ella estaba llorando.

Another mistake is using 'reparar' for personal grooming. In English, you might 'fix' your hair, but in Spanish, you would 'arreglarse el pelo' or 'peinarse.' Using 'reparar' here would suggest your hair is physically damaged like a broken machine.

False Cognate Confusion: Some learners confuse 'reparar' with 'recordar' (to remember) because they both start with 're-'. They are completely unrelated.

Mi abuelo solía reparar relojes antiguos en su tiempo libre.

Lastly, be careful with the word 'reparo.' While it is the first-person present of 'reparar' (I repair), as a noun, 'un reparo' means a 'qualm' or an 'objection.' If someone says 'No tengo reparos,' they aren't saying they don't have repairs to do; they are saying they have no objections or hesitations.

Regional Usage: In some regions, 'componer' is used more frequently than 'reparar' for fixing things, especially in Mexico and parts of Central America.

Él no tiene ningún reparo en decir lo que piensa, aunque sea ofensivo.

Spanish offers several alternatives to reparar, each with its own nuance. Choosing the right one can make you sound more like a native speaker. The most common alternative is 'arreglar.'

Reparar vs. Arreglar: 'Reparar' is more technical and specific to fixing damage. 'Arreglar' is more general and can mean fixing, tidying, organizing, or even settling a dispute. You 'arreglas' a room, but you 'reparas' a broken chair in that room.

Tenemos que arreglar este malentendido antes de que sea tarde.

For clothing, you might use 'remendar' (to mend/darn). This is specifically for sewing up holes in socks or shirts. If you are 'fixing' a situation or a legal error, 'subsanar' is a very formal and precise choice.

Reparar vs. Notar: When 'reparar' means 'to notice,' it is more formal than 'notar' or 'darse cuenta de.' 'Darse cuenta' is the most common way to say 'to realize' in daily conversation.

Me acabo de dar cuenta de que he dejado las llaves dentro del coche.

If you are talking about compensating someone for a loss, 'indemnizar' is the specific legal term, while 'resarcir' is a more literary way to say 'to compensate' or 'to make up for.'

Technical Terms: In IT, you might hear 'parchear' (to patch) for fixing software bugs, which is a specific type of 'reparar.'

El técnico logró subsanar el error en el contrato antes de la firma.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The root 'parāre' is also found in 'prepare' and 'parade'. In Spanish, 'reparar' originally meant to stop and look again, which explains why it now means both 'to fix' and 'to notice'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /re.pa.'ɾaɾ/

US /re.pɑ.'rɑr/

The stress is on the last syllable: re-pa-RAR.

Rhymes With

hablar caminar mirar llegar pensar amar estar lugar

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'r' like an English 'r' (retroflex). It should be a flap or trill.
Stressing the first or second syllable instead of the last.
Pronouncing the 'e' like 'ee' in 'bee'. It should be like 'e' in 'met'.
Making the 'p' aspirated (with a puff of air). Spanish 'p' is unaspirated.
Forgetting to tap the final 'r'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize due to the English cognate 'repair'.

Writing 3/5

Slightly harder due to the 'reparar en' prepositional requirement.

Speaking 3/5

Requires mastering the Spanish 'r' sound and the stress on the last syllable.

Listening 2/5

Clearly articulated word that is easy to catch in conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

romper cosa coche casa hacer

Learn Next

arreglar subsanar notar restaurar indemnizar

Advanced

resarcimiento indemnización percepción avería mantenimiento

Grammar to Know

Regular -ar verb conjugation

Yo reparo, tú reparas, él repara...

Verbos de régimen (Prepositional verbs)

Reparar + en + objeto (To notice something).

Passive 'se'

Se reparan lavadoras (Washing machines are repaired).

Infinitive after prepositions

Sin reparar en gastos (Without noticing/sparing expenses).

Subjunctive for requests/needs

Necesito que repares esto (I need you to fix this).

Examples by Level

Yo reparo mi juguete.

I fix my toy.

Present tense, first person singular.

¿Puedes reparar la radio?

Can you fix the radio?

Infinitive used with the helper verb 'poder'.

Él repara la silla.

He fixes the chair.

Present tense, third person singular.

Nosotros reparamos la puerta.

We repair the door.

Present tense, first person plural.

Ellos reparan bicicletas.

They repair bicycles.

Present tense, third person plural.

Quiero reparar mi ropa.

I want to repair my clothes.

Infinitive after 'querer'.

¿Cómo reparar un reloj?

How to repair a watch?

Infinitive used in a question of method.

Tú reparas el ordenador.

You repair the computer.

Present tense, second person singular.

Ayer reparé la lámpara de mi cuarto.

Yesterday I fixed the lamp in my room.

Preterite tense, first person singular.

El mecánico reparó el coche rápidamente.

The mechanic fixed the car quickly.

Preterite tense, third person singular.

Mañana repararemos la gotera del techo.

Tomorrow we will repair the leak in the ceiling.

Future tense, first person plural.

Mi padre siempre reparaba todo en casa.

My father always used to repair everything at home.

Imperfect tense, indicating a habitual action.

¿Has reparado ya el televisor?

Have you already repaired the television?

Present perfect tense.

Necesito que alguien repare el aire acondicionado.

I need someone to repair the air conditioning.

Present subjunctive after 'necesito que'.

Se reparan calzados en esta tienda.

Shoes are repaired in this shop.

Passive 'se' construction.

Ella está reparando su vieja cámara.

She is repairing her old camera.

Present progressive tense.

No reparé en que habías cambiado de peinado.

I didn't notice that you had changed your hairstyle.

Usage of 'reparar en' meaning 'to notice'.

Es difícil reparar una amistad rota.

It is difficult to repair a broken friendship.

Abstract usage of the verb.

Debemos reparar el daño que hicimos.

We must repair the damage we did.

Moral usage of the verb.

Si reparas en los detalles, verás la diferencia.

If you notice the details, you will see the difference.

Conditional sentence with 'reparar en'.

El fontanero no pudo reparar la tubería principal.

The plumber couldn't repair the main pipe.

Negative past tense with 'poder'.

Me gusta reparar cosas viejas para venderlas.

I like repairing old things to sell them.

Infinitive as a subject/object of 'gustar'.

Nadie reparó en el mendigo que estaba en la esquina.

No one noticed the beggar who was on the corner.

Past tense 'reparar en' meaning 'to notice'.

Espero que puedan reparar el error en mi factura.

I hope they can fix the error on my bill.

Subjunctive used for a wish/hope.

Organizaron una gran fiesta sin reparar en gastos.

They organized a big party sparing no expense.

Idiomatic expression 'sin reparar en gastos'.

El juez ordenó al culpable reparar a las víctimas.

The judge ordered the guilty party to compensate the victims.

Legal usage meaning 'to compensate'.

Al reparar en su mirada, comprendí que mentía.

Upon noticing his gaze, I understood he was lying.

Gerund-like use of 'al + infinitive'.

Se requiere un experto para reparar este fresco antiguo.

An expert is required to repair this ancient fresco.

Formal usage in art/history.

No reparaste en las consecuencias de tus actos.

You didn't notice the consequences of your actions.

Abstract usage of 'reparar en'.

La empresa busca reparar su imagen pública.

The company is looking to repair its public image.

Metaphorical use for reputation.

Fue un error que no pudimos reparar a tiempo.

It was a mistake we couldn't fix in time.

Relative clause with 'que'.

Si hubieras reparado en el aviso, no estaríamos perdidos.

If you had noticed the sign, we wouldn't be lost.

Past perfect subjunctive in a counterfactual.

El escritor reparó en la sutil ironía de la situación.

The writer noticed the subtle irony of the situation.

High-level literary usage of 'reparar en'.

La ley busca reparar íntegramente los daños causados.

The law seeks to fully repair the damages caused.

Legal/technical usage.

No tengo el menor reparo en admitir mi culpabilidad.

I have not the slightest qualm in admitting my guilt.

Usage of the noun 'reparo' meaning 'qualm'.

Es imperativo reparar las injusticias del pasado.

It is imperative to repair the injustices of the past.

Formal/political usage.

Sin reparar en mientes, se lanzó al rescate del niño.

Without a second thought, he jumped to rescue the child.

Idiomatic/Literary expression 'sin reparar en mientes'.

El técnico debe reparar en cada pequeña anomalía del sistema.

The technician must notice every small anomaly in the system.

Usage meaning 'to pay attention/notice'.

La restauración logró reparar el tejido original del tapiz.

The restoration managed to repair the original fabric of the tapestry.

Technical use in restoration.

Pocos repararon en el cambio de tono del discurso.

Few noticed the change in tone of the speech.

Usage of 'reparar en' with a collective subject.

La ontología busca reparar la brecha entre el ser y el pensar.

Ontology seeks to repair the gap between being and thinking.

Philosophical/Academic usage.

Su prosa es tan densa que cuesta reparar en todas sus metáforas.

His prose is so dense that it's hard to notice all its metaphors.

Literary criticism context.

El Estado debe reparar patrimonialmente a los expropiados.

The State must financially compensate those expropriated.

Highly technical legal terminology.

No reparó en medios para alcanzar su ambiciosa meta.

He spared no means to reach his ambitious goal.

Variation of 'sin reparar en gastos/medios'.

La memoria colectiva sirve para reparar el olvido histórico.

Collective memory serves to repair historical oblivion.

Sociological usage.

Cualquier reparo que pongas será analizado por el comité.

Any objection you raise will be analyzed by the committee.

Noun 'reparo' in a formal administrative context.

Al reparar en la vacuidad de sus palabras, se hizo el silencio.

Upon noticing the emptiness of his words, silence fell.

Abstract literary usage.

Es una labor de orfebrería reparar este mecanismo renacentista.

It is a task of goldsmithing to repair this Renaissance mechanism.

Technical/Historical usage.

Common Collocations

reparar el coche

reparar el daño

reparar en gastos

reparar una avería

reparar en un detalle

reparar una injusticia

reparar el motor

reparar calzado

reparar una fuga

reparar el honor

Common Phrases

Sin reparar en gastos

— To do something without worrying about the cost. It implies luxury or urgency.

Construyeron la mansión sin reparar en gastos.

Reparar en mientes

— To hesitate or stop to think. Usually used in the negative 'sin reparar en mientes'.

Entró al fuego sin reparar en mientes para salvar al perro.

Reparar el error

— To correct a mistake that was previously made.

Todavía estás a tiempo de reparar el error.

Reparar la salud

— An older way to say 'to recover' or 'to get better'.

Se fue al campo para reparar su salud.

Reparar las fuerzas

— To regain energy, usually by eating or sleeping.

Comimos un poco para reparar las fuerzas tras la caminata.

Dar un reparo

— To give a warning or to cause a qualm.

Me da reparo pedirle dinero a mi padre.

Poner reparos

— To raise objections or show hesitation about a plan.

El jefe puso muchos reparos al nuevo proyecto.

Reparar una ofensa

— To apologize or make up for an insult.

Buscó reparar la ofensa con una carta sincera.

Taller de reparación

— A repair shop, most commonly for cars or electronics.

Busco un taller de reparación de móviles.

Sin reparar en nada

— Doing something recklessly or without noticing anything around.

Corrió hacia la salida sin reparar en nada.

Often Confused With

reparar vs arreglar

Arreglar is more general (can mean tidy up), while reparar is specifically for fixing damage.

reparar vs preparar

They sound similar but 'preparar' means to prepare/get ready, while 'reparar' means to fix.

reparar vs parar

Parar means 'to stop'. Reparar is a different verb entirely, though they share a root.

Idioms & Expressions

"Sin reparar en gastos"

— Sparing no expense; spending as much as necessary.

Viajaron por todo el mundo sin reparar en gastos.

Common

"Sin reparar en mientes"

— Without hesitation or second thoughts.

Aceptó el desafío sin reparar en mientes.

Literary

"Reparar en barras"

— To be overly cautious or to hesitate due to small difficulties.

Es un hombre decidido que no repara en barras.

Archaic/Literary

"No tener reparo"

— To have no qualms or hesitations about doing something.

No tiene reparo en mentir para conseguir lo que quiere.

Neutral

"Reparar el daño causado"

— To make restitution for harm done.

El culpable debe reparar el daño causado a la propiedad.

Formal

"Reparar en la cuenta"

— To realize or notice the bill or the cost (often used metaphorically).

Solo al final reparó en la cuenta de sus excesos.

Literary

"Estar para reparar"

— To be in need of repair (often used for objects).

Ese tejado está para reparar antes de que llueva.

Informal

"Reparar por todo"

— To notice everything or be very observant (sometimes used critically).

Es una vecina que repara por todo lo que hacemos.

Colloquial

"Sin reparar en medios"

— Using any means necessary to achieve an end.

Querían ganar el campeonato sin reparar en medios.

Neutral

"Poner reparos a todo"

— To be a person who always finds reasons not to do something.

No seas negativo, siempre pones reparos a todo.

Informal

Easily Confused

reparar vs arreglar

Both mean 'to fix'.

Arreglar is used for tidying a room or fixing hair, whereas reparar is for mechanical or structural fixing.

Arreglo mi cama (I make my bed) vs Reparo mi cama (I fix the broken bed frame).

reparar vs notar

Both can mean 'to notice'.

Notar is common and direct. Reparar en is more formal and implies noticing a detail upon reflection or closer look.

Noté el frío vs Reparé en el frío.

reparar vs componer

Both mean 'to fix' in some regions.

Componer is more colloquial in Latin America and can also mean to compose music. Reparar is universal and more formal.

Compuso el radio vs Reparó el radio.

reparar vs restaurar

Both involve fixing old things.

Restaurar is for art or history. Reparar is for functionality.

Reparar un motor vs Restaurar un cuadro.

reparar vs subsanar

Both mean fixing a problem.

Subsanar is almost exclusively for errors, omissions, or legal deficiencies.

Subsanar una falta vs Reparar una tubería.

Sentence Patterns

Yo + [reparo] + [objeto]

Yo reparo la radio.

¿Puedes + reparar + [objeto]?

¿Puedes reparar mi reloj?

No + [reparé] + en + [detalle]

No reparé en su sombrero.

[Acción] + sin reparar en gastos

Compró el coche sin reparar en gastos.

Es necesario + reparar + el daño + [causado]

Es necesario reparar el daño causado por la tormenta.

No tener + reparo + en + [infinitivo]

No tiene reparo en decir la verdad.

Se + [reparan] + [objetos]

Se reparan ordenadores.

Al + reparar + en + [algo], + [consecuencia]

Al reparar en el error, lo corregí.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in daily life, especially regarding services and observations.

Common Mistakes

Using 'reparar' for making the bed. → Hacer la cama / Arreglar la cama.
Reparar implies the bed is physically broken. Arreglar is for tidying up.
Saying 'No reparé que venías'. → No reparé EN que venías.
When meaning 'to notice', 'reparar' must be followed by the preposition 'en'.
Confusing 'reparo' (qualm) with 'reparación' (repair). → Necesito una reparación.
'Reparo' as a noun usually means an objection or hesitation, not a physical fix.
Using 'reparar' for 'to remember'. → Recordar.
Learners sometimes confuse these because they both start with 're-'. They are unrelated.
Pronouncing 'reparar' with an English 'R'. → Spanish tapped/trilled 'R'.
The English 'R' is retroflex; the Spanish 'R' is a flap. This can make the word hard to recognize.

Tips

Master the Preposition

Always remember that 'reparar' + 'en' changes the meaning to 'to notice'. Without the 'en', you are just fixing something. This is a common test question for intermediate students.

Level Up from Arreglar

While 'arreglar' is safe, using 'reparar' in a technical context makes you sound more precise. Use it when talking about cars, computers, or home repairs to impress native speakers.

Look for the Signs

When walking in a Spanish-speaking city, look for signs starting with 'Reparación de...'. It's a great way to see the word in its natural habitat and learn the names of common objects.

Use 'Sin Reparar en Gastos'

This phrase is very natural and common. Use it when describing a big event or a generous person. It adds a touch of sophistication to your storytelling in Spanish.

The Final 'R'

Don't drop the final 'r' in 'reparar'. In some dialects, it might be soft, but for a learner, it's best to tap it clearly to ensure you are understood, especially in the infinitive form.

Formal Contexts

In professional emails, if you are reporting a bug or a broken piece of equipment, always use 'reparar' or 'reparación'. It sounds much more professional than 'arreglar'.

The 'Pair' Connection

Think of 're-pairing' a broken pair of shoes. You are making them a pair again by fixing the broken one. This visual can help you remember the spelling and the meaning.

Contextual Clues

If you hear 'reparar' in a courtroom or news setting, immediately think 'compensation' or 'restitution' rather than someone with a hammer and nails.

Object Placement

Remember that with 'reparar', pronouns can go before the conjugated verb ('Lo reparo') or attached to the infinitive ('Voy a repararlo'). Both are correct!

Qualms and Objections

Learn the noun 'reparo'. Saying 'No tengo reparos en hacerlo' is a high-level way to say 'I have no problem doing it' or 'I don't mind doing it.'

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Repair-er'. You use a Repair-er to REPARAR your broken car. It sounds almost exactly like the English word, making it easy to remember.

Visual Association

Imagine a mechanic holding a wrench, standing next to a car. Above him is a giant 'RE-' sign, and he is 'PARING' (preparing) the car to drive again.

Word Web

Mecánico Herramientas Taller Avería Notar Gasto Daño Solución

Challenge

Try to use 'reparar' three times today: once for something physical, once for 'noticing' something, and once in the phrase 'sin reparar en gastos'.

Word Origin

From the Latin 'reparāre', which is composed of the prefix 're-' (again) and 'parāre' (to make ready or prepare).

Original meaning: To make ready again or to restore.

Romance (Latin)

Cultural Context

When using 'reparar' in the context of victims or social justice, ensure a respectful tone as it carries significant emotional weight.

In English, we often say 'fix' for everything. In Spanish, 'reparar' is more specific to the act of restoration, while 'arreglar' is the generalist term.

The phrase 'Sin reparar en gastos' was famously used by John Hammond in the Spanish dub of Jurassic Park. The concept of 'Reparación Histórica' in various Latin American legislations. Traditional songs often speak of 'reparar un corazón herido'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the mechanic

¿Cuánto cuesta reparar el motor?
¿Pueden reparar el aire acondicionado?
Tengo que reparar los frenos.
¿Cuándo terminarán de repararlo?

Home maintenance

Hay que reparar la persiana.
El fontanero vino a reparar la fuga.
¿Sabes reparar enchufes?
Necesito reparar la pared.

Social/Relational

Quiero reparar nuestra relación.
Intentó reparar el daño con una disculpa.
No reparaste en mis sentimientos.
Es tarde para reparar el error.

Legal/Financial

El seguro debe reparar los daños.
Gastó mucho sin reparar en el presupuesto.
Reparar a las víctimas es una prioridad.
Puso reparos al contrato.

Observation/Daily Life

No reparé en que era tan tarde.
¿Reparaste en su cara de sorpresa?
Sin reparar en el peligro, saltó.
Nadie repara en los detalles pequeños.

Conversation Starters

"¿Alguna vez has tenido que reparar algo tú mismo en casa?"

"¿En qué detalles sueles reparar cuando conoces a alguien nuevo?"

"¿Crees que es posible reparar una amistad después de una gran mentira?"

"¿Qué es lo más difícil que has tenido que reparar en tu vida?"

"Si tuvieras dinero infinito, ¿en qué cosas no repararías en gastos?"

Journal Prompts

Escribe sobre una vez que reparaste algo importante para ti. ¿Cómo te sentiste al terminar?

Describe un detalle de tu ciudad en el que mucha gente no repara normalmente.

¿Qué errores del pasado te gustaría reparar si pudieras viajar en el tiempo?

Reflexiona sobre la frase 'sin reparar en gastos'. ¿Es siempre algo positivo o puede ser negativo?

Haz una lista de cosas en tu casa que necesitan ser reparadas y cómo piensas hacerlo.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, that is a common mistake. In Spanish, you use 'arreglarse el pelo' or 'peinarse'. 'Reparar' would imply your hair is physically broken like a machine. Use 'arreglar' for personal grooming and 'reparar' for tools or objects.

'Reparar' (without 'en') means to fix or mend a physical object or a situation. 'Reparar en' means to notice or observe something. For example, 'Reparo la mesa' means 'I fix the table,' while 'Reparo en la mesa' means 'I notice the table.'

Yes, 'reparar' is a completely regular -ar verb. It follows the same conjugation rules as 'hablar' or 'cantar' in all tenses, which makes it very easy for students to learn and use correctly.

Use 'arreglar' for general, everyday situations like tidying a room, fixing a simple problem, or getting ready. Use 'reparar' when the situation is more technical, professional, or when you specifically mean restoring something that was broken.

It is a very common idiom meaning 'sparing no expense' or 'regardless of the cost'. It is often used to describe someone who is spending a lot of money to ensure something is perfect, like a wedding or a luxury trip.

Yes, it can. You can say 'reparar una relación' or 'reparar una amistad'. It implies that the relationship was damaged by a conflict and you are working to restore the trust and bond between the people involved.

No, 'reparación' is the most common noun for the act of fixing. However, 'reparo' is also a noun, but it means 'qualm' or 'objection'. For example, 'No tengo ningún reparo' means 'I have no objection.' 'Reparador' is the person who fixes things.

You can say 'reparación de calzado' or 'compostura de calzado'. You will often see signs that say 'Se reparan calzados' outside a cobbler's shop. The person who does this is called a 'zapatero'.

Yes, especially in legal or formal contexts. 'Reparar a las víctimas' means to provide compensation or restitution for damages they have suffered. It is a key term in human rights and civil law discussions.

The meaning is the same, but the frequency varies. In Spain, 'reparar' is very common. In some Latin American countries, like Mexico, 'componer' is often used colloquially for fixing machines, though everyone will understand 'reparar'.