redoblar

Redoblar is a Spanish verb with several related meanings centered on repetition, intensification, and increased tempo. In its literal sense, it denotes repeating a beat or strike, especially in music, as in redoblar los tambores to perform a drum roll. In a broader, figurative use, redoblar means to intensify or accelerate something, such as redoblar esfuerzos, redoblar la velocidad o redoblar la campaña, implying a renewed or strengthened push.

Etymology and related forms: redoblar derives from the noun redoble (drumbeat), which itself comes from the verb doblar (to double or fold) with the prefix re- indicating repetition or magnification. The noun redoble is commonly used to refer to the drumbeat or a rapid sequence of strokes, and the expression redoble de tambores is a familiar image of a drumroll.

Usage and conjugation: redoblar is a regular -ar verb. Examples in the present indicative include: yo redoblo, tú redoblas, él redobla, nosotros redoblamos, vosotros redobláis, ellos redoblan. The preterite forms are: redobé, redoblaste, redobló, redoblamos, redoblasteis, redoblaron. It is typically transitive, requiring a direct object when used in the musical sense (redoblar los tambores) or in the idiomatic sense (redoblar esfuerzos). While the reflexive form is possible in some contexts, it is less common and not standard for most uses.

Examples in usage: governments may redoblar esfuerzos to meet deadlines; a marching band may redoblar el paso as tempo increases; in performance, a conductor might direct musicians to redoblar la intensidad.

See also: drumroll, escalation, emphasis.