Learning how to say “pasar” in Spanish is essential for effective communication in the language. In this guide, we will explore different ways to translate this versatile verb, both formally and informally. While there may be regional variations in certain contexts, we will provide you with general tips and examples that you can apply across Spanish-speaking communities.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Pasar” in Spanish
Let’s start with some formal equivalents of the verb “pasar.” These translations are commonly used in formal settings, written texts, or when speaking to someone you have to address with respect:
- Trascender: This term is used when “pasar” is meant to convey a sense of transcending or going beyond something. For example:
El evento trasciende las fronteras del país. (The event goes beyond the country’s borders.)
Acontecer: When “pasar” refers to an event or something noteworthy happening, “acontecer” is the preferred term. For instance:
El accidente aconteció en la autopista. (The accident happened on the highway.)
Ocurrir: This verb is commonly used to express the notion of something occurring or taking place. Consider the following example:
El cambio de horario ocurrirá durante la madrugada. (The time change will occur during the early morning.)
Transcurrir: When you want to say that time is passing or an event is progressing, “transcurrir” can be a useful option. For example:
La jornada transcurrió sin incidentes. (The day passed without incidents.)
Informal Ways to Say “Pasar” in Spanish
When speaking informally or in everyday situations, you can employ these more colloquial alternatives for the verb “pasar”:
- Ir: This verb is quite versatile and can be used to convey the meaning of “go by,” “pass by,” or simply “happen.” Here’s an example:
¿Sabes qué? Hoy fui por tu casa, pero no estabas. (You know what? Today I went by your house, but you weren’t there.)
Darse: This term is often used in certain idiomatic expressions to convey the idea of something happening or occurring. Consider the following:
Se dio la oportunidad de viajar al extranjero. (The opportunity to travel abroad arose.)
Ocurrir: Just like in formal language, “ocurrir” can also be employed in informal settings to express something happening. Here’s an example:
Oye, ¿sabes qué ocurrió ayer en la fiesta? (Hey, do you know what happened yesterday at the party?)
Pasarla bien: When you want to say that you had a good time or enjoyed yourself, “pasarla bien” is a common informal phrase. Example:
Gracias por invitarme a la reunión, lo pasé muy bien. (Thanks for inviting me to the gathering, I had a great time.)
Examples of “Pasar” in Context
Now let’s see “pasar” in action with some contextual examples that showcase both formal and informal usage:
- Formal:
El tiempo pasa rápidamente cuando estás disfrutando la compañía de tus seres queridos. (Time passes quickly when you’re enjoying the company of your loved ones.)
Informal:
¿Vamos al cine esta tarde? ¡Pasa por mi casa a las 7:30! (Shall we go to the movies this afternoon? Swing by my place at 7:30!)
Remember, regional variations may exist, so the context and audience are essential considerations when selecting the appropriate translation for “pasar” in any given situation. However, the options we’ve shared here are widely understood and will help you express yourself effectively throughout the Spanish-speaking world.
Practice using these translations and you’ll soon master the various forms and contexts of “pasar” in Spanish. ¡Buena suerte!
