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"Comprar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to buy", and "preparar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to prepare". Learn more about the difference between "comprar" and "preparar" below.
comprar(
kohm
-
prahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
1. (to acquire)
a. to buy
¡Hay que comprar una piñata que hoy comienzan las posadas!We need to buy a piñata because the Posadas start today!
2. (to bribe)
a. to buy off
Los políticos malvados intentaron comprar mi silencio.The evil politicians tried to buy me off.
An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
preparar(
preh
-
pah
-
rahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
a. to prepare
Prepara las cosas para la excursión la noche anterior para que no se te olvide nada.Prepare your things for the trip the night before so you don't forget anything.
a. to prepare
Hicimos lo que pudimos para preparar a nuestros hijos para la vida.We did what we could to prepare our children for life.
prepararse
A pronominal verb always uses a reflexive pronoun. (e.g., Te ves cansado.).
4. (to study)
A reflexive verb is a verb that indicates that the subject performs an action on itself (e.g., Miguel se lava.).
5. (to groom)
a. to get ready
Me estoy preparando para la fiesta de esta noche.I'm getting ready for a party tonight.
