solaparse
/solapaɾse/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'overlap' is translated into Spanish as solaparse.
The verb solaparse is an intransitive verb used to describe the action of extending over and partly covering something. If you are referring to the noun 'an overlap', use solapamiento.
Meaning: intransitive: to extend over and partly cover something (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The verb solaparse is derived from the noun solapa, meaning 'flap' or 'lapel', combined with the reflexive suffix -se, literally meaning 'to flap over oneself'.
Which one should you use?
While solaparse is the standard verb, you may encounter Traslape as a common formal term for the concept of overlap or Superposición when specifically denoting the idea of superposition. For the noun, use solapamiento.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, it is common to use the term empalmar to mean overlap.
How does it change in a sentence?
As a reflexive verb, solaparse requires a reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, os, se) to indicate the action of overlapping.
How do you pronounce it?
/solapaɾse/
Did you know?
- While solaparse describes physical overlap, the adjective solapado is often used to describe a person who is secretive, hypocritical or hiding their true intentions.
- The root word solapa refers to a lapel, but in a political context, solapar can mean to covertly protect or condone an illegal activity.
- In Mexico, the term empalmar for overlap comes from the word for 'joining' or 'splicing', which is also used colloquially to mean 'meeting up' with someone.
Examples in context
- El traslape entre la investigación actual y los estudios previos es evidente.The overlap between current research and previous studies is evident.
- La superposición de colores crea un efecto artístico único.The superposition of colors creates a unique artistic effect.
- Asegúrate de que las prendas no se encimen en el armario.Make sure the clothes do not overlap in the closet.
- Los papeles se sobreponen unos sobre otros en mi escritorio.The papers overlap one another on my desk.
- Los horarios de las clases se empalman entre sí.The class schedules overlap with each other.
- Las funciones del teatro se solapan algunas veces.The theater functions overlap sometimes.
- Las dos piezas se solapan.The two pieces overlap.
- Las tejas deben solaparse un poco.The tiles must overlap a little bit.
Example conversation
Mateo and Sofía are working on a DIY project involving roof repairs.
- Mateo¿Cómo debemos poner las tejas?How should we place the tiles?
- SofíaDeben solaparse para que no entre agua.They must overlap so that water doesn't get in.
- MateoEntiendo, las pondré con cuidado.I understand, I will place them carefully.
- SofíaGracias, Mateo, así quedará perfecto.Thanks, Mateo, that way it will be perfect.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry solaparse, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
