In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “hasten” in Spanish. Whether you are learning Spanish for a trip, business purposes, or simply to broaden your linguistic abilities, knowing different translations and regional variations can be incredibly useful. We will cover both formal and informal expressions and provide tips and examples to help you grasp the nuances of this word in Spanish.
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Formal Translations for “Hasten” in Spanish
When it comes to formal translations of “hasten” in Spanish, there are several options to consider:
- Acelerar: This is a commonly used formal term that directly translates to “to hasten” or “to accelerate.” It’s often used when referring to the acceleration of a process or the need to speed up a particular activity. Example: Deberíamos acelerar la producción para cumplir con los plazos. (We should hasten production to meet the deadlines.)
- Apresurar: An alternative formal term that signifies “to hasten” or “to speed up.” It can be used in various contexts, such as work-related situations, time management, or even urging someone to act quickly. Example: El presidente apresuró la firma del contrato para garantizar su implementación oportuna. (The president hastened the signing of the contract to ensure timely implementation.)
- Adelantar: While primarily meaning “to advance” or “to move forward,” in certain contexts, it can be used to convey the sense of hastening or progressing quickly. Example: Nos urge adelantar el proceso de selección de personal. (We need to hasten the recruitment process.)
- Darse prisa: This phrase, which literally translates to “to hurry oneself,” is a more idiomatic way of expressing “to hasten” in a formal manner. Example: Es imperativo que se den prisa en terminar el proyecto. (It is imperative that you hasten to finish the project.)
Informal Translations for “Hasten” in Spanish
When it comes to informal translations, Spanish offers several alternatives that are commonly used in everyday conversations:
- Darle caña: This phrase, which literally means “to give it cane,” is an informal and slang expression often used to convey the idea of “hastening” or “putting effort into something.” Example: Vamos a darle caña a este proyecto para terminarlo a tiempo. (Let’s hasten this project to finish it on time.)
- Va como piña: Another colloquial phrase, “va como piña,” means “it goes like pineapple.” It is often used in informal settings to express that something is progressing rapidly. Example: ¡Este trabajo va como piña, ya casi lo termino! (This work is going like pineapple; I am almost done!)
- Metele pata: This phrase, which translates to “put your foot into it,” is used informally to encourage someone to hasten or put more effort into a task. Example: ¡Métele pata a esa tarea que tenemos que irnos! (Hasten that task because we need to go!)
- Apurarse: Though not exclusively informal, this term is often used among friends or in casual settings to mean “to hurry” or “to rush.” Example: Déjame terminar esto, ¡no te apures! (Let me finish this, don’t rush me!)
Regional Variations
While the translations mentioned above are widely understood and used in many Spanish-speaking regions, it’s important to note that language can vary across different countries or even within specific regions. Here are a few variations:
In some Latin American countries, such as Mexico and Argentina, you may come across the word “acelerar” being used colloquially and informally to indicate “hasten.” Thus, you might hear someone say, “Acélerale a eso” (Hasten that) or “Vamos a acelerar el paso” (Let’s hasten our pace).
Conclusion
Learning how to say “hasten” in Spanish is an important step in becoming fluent in the language. Whether you need to express urgency in a formal or informal context, the translations and phrases provided in this guide will help you communicate effectively. Remember to adapt your choice of words to match the level of formality required in each situation. With practice and exposure to different Spanish-speaking regions, you will become more comfortable using various terms for “hasten.” ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
