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"Preparar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to prepare", and "decorar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to decorate". Learn more about the difference between "preparar" and "decorar" below.
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.
decorar(
deh
-
koh
-
rahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
1. (to adorn)
a. to decorate
Me gustaría decorar la sala de estar con más pinturas.I would like to decorate the living room with more paintings.
Vamos a decorar el altar con flores, fotos y la comida preferida del difunto.We're going to decorate the altar with flowers, pictures, and the deceased's favorite food.
b. to dress (a store window)
Siempre decoran el escaparate de los grandes almacenes para la Navidad.They always dress the store window of the department store for Christmas.
