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"Aproximarse a" is a pronominal verb phrase which is often translated as "to approach", and "acercarse" is a reflexive verb which is also often translated as "to approach". Learn more about the difference between "aproximarse a" and "acercarse" below.
aproximarse a(
ah
-
prohk
-
see
-
mahr
-
seh
ah
)A pronominal verb phrase combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and always uses a reflexive pronoun. (e.g., Se dio cuenta del problema.)
a. to approach
Los coches de carrera deben reducir la velocidad cuando se aproximan a boxes.The racing cars must reduce their speed when they approach the pits.
b. to near
El helicóptero se aproxima a la zona de aterrizaje.The helicopter is nearing the landing area.
a. to be close to
El dinero que ofrecen por nuestro coche no se aproxima para nada a lo que pedimos.The money they’re offering for our car isn’t close enough to our asking price.
acercarse(
ah
-
sehr
-
kahr
-
seh
)A reflexive verb is a verb that indicates that the subject performs an action on itself (e.g., Miguel se lava.).
a. to approach
Acércate al perro con cuidado porque podría ser rabioso.Approach the dog carefully, because it might be rabid.
A pronominal verb always uses a reflexive pronoun. (e.g., Te ves cansado.).
a. to take an interest in
El libro me hizo acercarme a la política exterior.The book made me take an interest in foreign policy.
3. (to travel)
acercar
A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
