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"Gustar" is an intransitive verb which is often translated as "to like", and "placer" is a noun which is often translated as "pleasure". Learn more about the difference between "gustar" and "placer" below.
gustar(
goos
-
tahr
)
An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
intransitive verb
a. to like
Me gusta la comida mexicana.I like Mexican food.
b. to please
A ella le gustó ver a su hijo tan contento.She was pleased to see her son so happy.
a. to like
¿Crees que le gusto?Do you think she likes me?
b. to fancy
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
(United Kingdom)
Me gusta mucho tu primo. ¿Cómo se llama?I really fancy your cousin. What's his name?
a. to be liked
Las columnas de Rita gustan mucho. Las vamos a seguir publicando.Rita's columns are liked a lot. We'll keep on publishing them.
b. to be popular
No entiendo por qué gusta tanto el vino espumante. Lo detesto.I can't understand why sparkling wine is so popular. I hate it.
A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
transitive verb
a. to taste (food)
¿Puedes gustar esta salsa? ¿Le pongo más sal?Can you taste this sauce? Should I add more salt?
5. (to desire)
Regionalism used in Latin America: all the countries in South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Does not include Spain.
(Latin America)
a. to want
¿Gustan algo más?Do you want anything else?
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el placer(
plah
-
sehr
)
A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
masculine noun
a. pleasure
Ha sido un placer conocerlo, Señor Presidente.It has been a pleasure to meet you, Mr. President.
a. sandbank
El bote paró en un placer para dejar que la gente estirara las piernas.The boat stopped at a sandbank to let people stretch their legs.
An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
intransitive verb
a. to please
Nos place que te quedes con nosotros durante los días feriados.We're pleased that you're staying with us over the holidays.
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