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"Conservar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to maintain", and "cuidar el medio ambiente" is an intransitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to take care of the environment". Learn more about the difference between "conservar" and "cuidar el medio ambiente" below.
conservar(
kohn
-
sehr
-
bahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
a. to maintain
El objetivo de estos ejercicios es conservar la salud de los pacientes.The goal of these activities is maintaining the health of our patients.
b. to preserve
Hay muchos avances tecnológicos que ayudan a conservar el medio ambiente.There are many technological advances that help to preserve the environment.
c. to retain
El plástico ayudará a conservar la humedad del pastel.The plastic wrap will help retain the moisture of the cake.
d. to keep
En nuestra familia conservamos viva la tradición del pesebre en Navidad.In our family, we keep alive the tradition of the Christmas creche.
3. (culinary)
a. to preserve
Mi abuela me enseñó cómo conservar los chiles en vinagre.My grandmother taught me how to preserve chili peppers in vinegar.
conservarse
A pronominal verb always uses a reflexive pronoun. (e.g., Te ves cansado.).
4. (to last)
a. to keep
Esta salsa se conserva durante mucho tiempo si se la guarda en un lugar frío.This sauce will keep for a long time if stored in a cool place.
b. to survive
El pueblo indígena está decidido a que se conserve su cultura.The indigenous group is determined to make its culture survive.
cuidar el medio ambiente(
kwee
-
dahr
ehl
meh
-
dyoh
ahm
-
byehn
-
teh
)An intransitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and does not require a direct object (e.g., Everybody please stand up.).
1. (ecology)
a. to take care of the environment
Nuestra salud y calidad de vida mejoran de forma notable cuando cuidamos el medio ambiente.Our health and quality of life notably improve when we take care of the environment.
b. to look after the environment
Reciclar es una forma de cuidar el medio ambiente.Recycling is a way of looking after the environment.
