recalcar
verbCEFR B2
What does “recalcar” mean in English?
to stress, to emphasise
to stress, to emphasise (recalcar + noun/clause — make a point forcefully in speech or writing)
Example sentences
La portavoz recalcó que ningún acuerdo sería válido sin la aprobación de todos los estados miembros.
The spokesperson stressed that no agreement would be valid without the approval of all member states.
El ponente recalcó en varias ocasiones la importancia de los datos longitudinales para este tipo de estudio.
The speaker stressed on several occasions the importance of longitudinal data for this type of study.
Quiero recalcar que esta propuesta no cuenta con el respaldo de la dirección.
I want to stress that this proposal does not have the backing of management.
How to use it
Recalcar means 'to stress', 'to emphasise', or 'to drive home a point'. It implies deliberate, often repeated emphasis: recalcó que no había acuerdo (she stressed that there was no agreement). It is more forceful than señalar (point out) and more oral/rhetorical than subrayar (underline in writing). Common structures: recalcar que + indicative; recalcó la importancia de + noun. Near-synonyms: enfatizar (emphasise — more neutral), insistir en (insist on — implies repetition), destacar (highlight — more visual/written).
Common mistake
Recalcar is primarily spoken/rhetorical — in written academic prose, subrayar or destacar are more common. Recalcar que + indicative (not subjunctive) when reporting a fact the speaker is stressing; subjunctive follows when there is doubt or desire involved. Don't confuse with repetir (merely repeat, no emphasis implied).