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"Esconder" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to hide", and "ocultar" is a transitive verb which is also often translated as "to hide". Learn more about the difference between "esconder" and "ocultar" below.
esconder(
ehs
-
kohn
-
dehr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
b. to conceal
Una forma de esconder las arrugas es usando maquillaje.One way to conceal wrinkles is to use make-up.
esconderse
A reflexive verb is a verb that indicates that the subject performs an action on itself (e.g., Miguel se lava.).
b. to conceal oneself
Traté de esconderme detrás de un arbusto.I tried to conceal myself behind a bush.
a. to hide
Quisiera saber qué se esconde detrás de esa fachada de respetabilidad.I'd like to know what hides beneath that facade of respectability.
ocultar(
oh
-
kool
-
tahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
b. to conceal
No hay forma de ocultar las arrugas, por mucho maquillaje que te pongas.There's no way to conceal your wrinkles, no matter how much makeup you use.
a. to hide
No podremos ocultarles la verdad por mucho tiempo.We won't be able to hide the truth from them for very long.
ocultarse
A pronominal verb always uses a reflexive pronoun. (e.g., Te ves cansado.).
b. to disappear
El sol se había ocultado detrás de las montañas y reinaba una gran oscuridad.The sun had disappeared behind the mountains and darkness prevailed.
