What does it mean word for word?
The verb postularse literally means to nominate oneself or to apply, and para presidente means for president.
Which one should you use?
The phrase postularse para presidente describes the action of running, whereas ser candidato a la presidencia describes the state of being a candidate. You can also use presentarse a la presidencia as a common alternative to postularse when describing a political candidacy.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Latin America, it is common to use the formal expression aspirar a la Presidencia. In Spain, it is common to use presentarse a las elecciones presidenciales to convey the same idea.
How does it change in a sentence?
While postularse para presidente is common, it is also very frequent to use the noun la presidencia (the presidency) instead of the person presidente. For example, you might say postularse para la presidencia.
How do you pronounce it?
/postulaɾse paɾa pɾesidente/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using the literal translation correr para presidente. In Spanish, the verb correr only refers to physical running or jogging.
Did you know?
- Using the term aspirar a to describe running for president is a linguistic crossover, as the same verb is used to describe the physical act of inhaling air.
- The verb postularse is derived from the same root as 'apostle', implying a sense of being chosen or nominated for a specific mission or role.
- The word presidente is built from two Latin roots that mean 'before' and 'to sit', literally describing someone who 'sits in front' of a group.
Examples in context
- El reconocido político está optando a la Presidencia del país.The renowned politician is running for President of the country.
- Ella ha anunciado su candidatura presidencial.She has announced her presidential candidacy.
- Mi vecino se ha postulado para presidente en las próximas elecciones.My neighbor has announced his candidacy for president in the upcoming elections.
- Ella quiere postularse para presidente este año.She wants to run for president this year.
- ¿Él va a postularse para presidente?Is he going to run for president?
- Muchos políticos decidieron postularse para presidente.Many politicians decided to run for president.
Example conversation
Sofía and Mateo are discussing political news at a cafe.
- SofíaMateo, ¿sabías que ella va a postularse para presidente?Mateo, did you know she is going to run for president?
- MateoNo lo sabía, es una noticia increíble.I didn't know, it is incredible news.
- SofíaSí, ella es muy preparada para el cargo.Yes, she is very prepared for the position.
- MateoEspero que tenga mucho éxito en su campaña.I hope she has a lot of success in her campaign.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries para, presidente, CC BY-SA 4.0.
