What is the Difference Between 'To Like' and 'To Please' in Spanish?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the semantic differences between the Spanish verbs "gustar" and their English translations "to like" and "to please." Participants explore how these terms are understood in different contexts and the implications of their usage in Spanish compared to English.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants examine the active versus passive roles in the expressions of liking and pleasing, questioning how these roles affect the interpretation of "gustar." Some express confusion over the definitions and seek clarification on the distinctions made by their teacher.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing their interpretations and personal insights. Some have provided examples to illustrate their points, while others are still grappling with the nuances of the terms involved.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication that the discussion may be influenced by the participants' educational context, including differing definitions provided by a teacher and a textbook. The nature of the inquiry suggests a blend of linguistic analysis and personal reflection on language learning.

Imparcticle
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According to my Spanish book, "Gustar" is defined as "to like". According to my spanish teacher, "Gustar" should be defined as "To please". According to the dictionary, both "to like" and "to please" are essentially analogous. I pointed this out to him (my Spanish teacher), and he said they are different. I respect my teacher; he is very talented in semantics and philosophy. I would like to see the error I have made in my analysis. Can someone please point it out to me?
 
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i am thinking this is more of a homework question then a philosophy question?
 
Think of the difference between "I like chocolate" and "Chocolate pleases me."

They're close -- either way I end up fat & happy. But in the first case, I'm the active one, I'm "doing" the liking. The chocolate just lies there waiting for me. In the second case it's the chocolate that's active. I just lie there and the chocolate does it's thing.

You can replace the chocolate with whatever pleases you. :wink:

Mmm...
 
And "gustar" is the second one.

cookiemonster
 
It just happens that in spanish, you don't like things -- things please you. Deal with it.

- Warren
 
gnome said:
Think of the difference between "I like chocolate" and "Chocolate pleases me."

They're close -- either way I end up fat & happy. But in the first case, I'm the active one, I'm "doing" the liking. The chocolate just lies there waiting for me. In the second case it's the chocolate that's active. I just lie there and the chocolate does it's thing.

You can replace the chocolate with whatever pleases you. :wink:

Mmm...

Oh, I see now. Thank you. Very cool, I must say.
 

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