Deber (en. Duty)

/deˈβeɾ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish

verb

Definition: To commit to performing an action.

Example Sentence: I must study for the exam.

Debo estudiar para el examen.

Definition: To express a need or recommendation.

Example Sentence: You should eat well to stay healthy.

Debes comer bien para estar saludable.

Definition: Indicates a logical consequence or deduction.

Example Sentence: If it rains, you should take an umbrella.

Si llueve, debes llevar un paraguas.

Etymology/Origin: From Latin 'debere', which means 'to owe' or 'to be obligated'.

Phrase: ought to

Meaning: Indicates an obligation or a recommendation, such as 'ought to do something'.

deber de

Phrase: should not

Meaning: Indicates the negation of an obligation.

no deber

Phrase: owe to someone

Meaning: Indicates a debt or a moral obligation towards another person.

deber a alguien

Related Word: obligation

Description: Commitment that must be fulfilled.

obligación

Related Word: responsibility

Description: Quality of being in charge of something or someone.

responsabilidad

Related Word: duties

Description: Tasks or activities that must be performed, especially in a student context.

deberes

Slang Meaning: To be on the to-do list.

Example: I have a ton of homework to do.

Tengo un montón de deberes por hacer.

Slang Meaning: To fulfill what needs to be done.

Example: You should catch up with your homework.

Debes ponerte al día con tus deberes.