socializar
/soθjaliˈθaɾ/
To socialize in Spanish is to say socializar. Wiktionary also lists alternar.
Meaning: to interact with others (verb)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| socializar | /soθjaliˈθaɾ/ /sosjaliˈsaɾ/ |
| alternar | /alteɾˈnaɾ/ |
Socializar is used to describe the general act of interacting with others. In a sociological or political context, it can also mean to make something social or communal. When you want to express the idea of socializing specifically through chatting or talking online, you can use the informal term chatear.
Which one should you use?
While socializar refers to the general act of interacting, alternar is used in more casual contexts to mean mingling or moving between different groups of people at a social event.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, the verb convivir is widely used to convey the idea of socializing.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun form for the process of socialization is socialización.
How do you pronounce it?
/soθjaliˈθaɾ/
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, socializar is often linked to the concept of sobremesa, the tradition of staying at the table long after a meal to talk and socialize.
- The English word 'alternate' and the Spanish verb alternar share the same ancient root, tracing back to the Proto-Indo-European term for 'the other'.
- While English speakers use 'socialize' to mean hanging out, a Spanish speaker using socializar might actually be talking about converting private property into public or communal ownership.
Examples in context
- A Tom no le gusta socializar.Tom doesn't like to socialize.This sentence shows a preference regarding the verb socializar.Tatoeba #5847088 by solmyrbcn, translation #2279414 by CK
- Hay que consumir menos y socializar más.We have to consume less and socialize more.This sentence suggests a balance between consumption and the verb socializar.Tatoeba #14019899 by Seael, translation #14019905 by frpzzd
- Yo juego juegos de mesa sólo para socializar.I play board games just to socialize.This sentence explains a motivation for playing games using the verb socializar.Tatoeba #1277985 by marcelostockle, translation #355665 by Denizar
- Tenemos la oportunidad de confraternizar con otros empresariosWe have the opportunity to socialize with other entrepreneurs
- Es importante relacionarse con colegas de otras áreasIt is important to socialize with colleagues from other departments
- Me encanta chatear con amigos por las redes socialesI love socializing with friends on social media
- Nos vamos a juntar en el bar para charlarWe're going to get together at the bar to chat
- ¿Quedamos el viernes para salir?Shall we meet up on Friday to go out?
- ¡Mucho gusto!Nice to meet you!
- ¿Qué tal?How's it going?
- ¿Qué te trae por aquí?What brings you here?
- Disculpa, ¿puedo unirme a ustedes?Excuse me, may I join you?
- Fue un placer conocerte.It was a pleasure meeting you.
- 3 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a work party.
- AlejandroVoy a ir a la fiesta para socializar.I am going to the party to socialize.
- MaríaYo prefiero quedarme en casa hoy.I prefer to stay at home today.
- AlejandroPero es una buena oportunidad para socializar.But it is a good opportunity to socialize.
- MaríaTienes razón, iré contigo, Alejandro.You are right, I will go with you, Alejandro.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “socialize” translations and entries socializar, alternar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries alternar, socializar, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
