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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.).
1. (to enjoy)
b. to fancy (United Kingdom)
Regionalism used in the 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.).
4. (to test)
5. (to desire) (Latin America)
Regionalism used in Latin America: all the countries in South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Does not include Spain.
el placer(
plah
-
sehr
)A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
a. pleasure
Ha sido un placer conocerlo, Señor Presidente.It has been a pleasure to meet you, Mr. President.
2. (nautical)
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.).
3. (to satisfy)
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.