provechar

Provechar is a Spanish verb that denotes making good use of something to obtain a benefit, especially by taking advantage of an opportunity or resource. In contemporary usage it is generally considered a regional variant or archaic form of aprovechar, the standard verb in most contexts.

Origin and status: Provechar appears in older texts and in certain dialects, sharing the same semantic field as aprovechar. Today, its use is limited and often regarded as literary or rustic. Most speakers and writers prefer aprovechar in everyday speech and writing, while provechar may be encountered in proverbs, poetry, or regional speech.

Usage and examples: Provechar is used with meanings close to aprovechar, such as seizing an opportunity or making use of available resources. Examples include: “Hay que provechar la ocasión cuando se presenta” and “La empresa provecha los recursos disponibles para aumentar la productividad.” In standard Spanish, synonyms include aprovechar, sacar partido, and sacar provecho; the first is overwhelmingly more common in modern usage.

Regional variation and perception: The verb is retained in some dialects and older literary registers. In formal writing and most contemporary conversation, aprovechar is the preferred form. Provechar may be found when quoting historical texts, regional speech, or in works aiming to evoke a traditional tone.

See also: Aprovechar; sacar partido; sacar provecho.