empieza
/empjeθa/from spelling rules
empieza is the Spanish word for starts or begins.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The term Arranca is more commonly used in Latin American countries, particularly in Argentina and Mexico.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form empieza can function as the informal singular imperative (command) form, meaning "start!" or "begin!"
How do you pronounce it?
/empjeθa/
Did you know?
- Spanish speakers often use ya empieza as an expression of annoyance, similar to 'here we go again' in English. It is used when someone starts a predictable and irritating behavior.
- In some Latin American contexts, arrancar can also mean 'to tear away' or 'to pull out' by the roots. This creates a sharp contrast with the gentle start implied by empieza.
- In Spanish, there is a distinct difference between empezar and comenzar. While both mean 'to start', comenzar is often perceived as more formal or literary, whereas empieza is the default for daily life.
Examples in context
- ¿A qué hora empieza el partido de fútbol?What time does the soccer match start?
- Empieza a estudiar ahora mismo, no dejes todo para después.Start studying right now, don't leave everything for later.
- Empieza el partido de fútbol a las siete en punto.The soccer match starts at seven o'clock.
- La película empieza ahora.The movie starts now.
- El partido empieza a las ocho.The game starts at eight.
- La clase empieza en cinco minutos.The class starts in five minutes.
Example conversation
Javier and Sofía are waiting for a concert to begin.
- JavierSofía, ¿a qué hora empieza el concierto?Sofía, what time does the concert start?
- SofíaEmpieza pronto, creo.It starts soon, I think.
- Javier¡Mira! La música empieza ya.Look! The music is starting now.
- SofíaQué emocionante.How exciting.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
