sobresalir
/sobɾesaˈliɾ/
In Spanish, the phrase 'sticking out' is expressed as sobresalir.
The verb is used to describe being more noticeable or prominent than other people or things around.
Which one should you use?
sobresalir can be used to describe something that sticks out physically, but it is also the standard way to say that someone stands out due to their talent or excellence.
How does it change in a sentence?
The gerund form meaning 'sticking out' is sobresaliendo. In the preterite tense, the third-person singular form (he/she/it stuck out) is sobresalió.
How do you pronounce it?
/sobɾesaˈliɾ/
Did you know?
- The root 'salir' in sobresalir is related to the English word 'salient', which describes something that projects or sticks out.
- The word salir, found inside sobresalir, is used in Spanish to describe everything from exiting a room to dating someone or even a photo turning out well.
- While sobresalir describes standing out, Spanish uses the phrase llamar la atención to describe the act of attracting attention, which literally means 'to call the attention'.
Examples in context
- El edificio sobresale en el horizonte de la ciudad.The building sticks out on the city skyline.
- Su talento innato destaca en el mundo de la música.His innate talent stands out in the music world.
- Sus ojos verdes resaltan en su rostro.Her green eyes stand out on her face.
- Sus nuevos zapatos de colores saltan a la vista.His new colorful shoes stick out.
- La mujer con el sombrero llamativo llama la atención en la fiesta.The woman with the flashy hat stands out at the party.
- El edificio sobresale entre las casas.The building sticks out among the houses.
- Ella sabe cómo sobresalir en el trabajo.She knows how to stand out at work.
- Sus habilidades matemáticas le ayudan a sobresalir.His math skills help him stand out.
Example conversation
Javier and Elena are discussing their outfits for a party.
- JavierVoy a usar este traje dorado.I am going to wear this gold suit.
- ElenaVas a sobresalir mucho entre los invitados, Javier.You are going to stick out a lot among the guests, Javier.
- JavierEso es exactamente lo que quiero.That is exactly what I want.
- ElenaEntonces te ves muy bien, Javier.In that case, you look very good, Javier.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sobresalir, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
