Language is full of expressions that reflect the culture, humour, and shared experiences of those who speak it. Idioms, in particular, add colour and depth to any conversation. They capture emotions, actions, and situations in ways that go beyond literal translation. English and Spanish are rich in idioms, and while some express similar ideas, others stand out as unique to their respective cultures. Let’s dive into a selection of idioms in both languages, exploring their meanings and examples.
Idioms About Happiness In English and Spanish Happiness transcends cultures, yet its expression can vary. In Spanish, the idiom "estar como unas castañuelas" translates to being as joyful as castanets, a nod to the very Spanish flamenco. Similarly, in English, one might say they’re "on cloud nine" or "over the moon." These idioms reflect a state of absolute delight.
Spanish example: "Desde que recibió la noticia, está como unas castañuelas." English example: "She’s been on cloud nine ever since she got the news." Idioms About Empathy in English and Spanish Empathy is the ability to see the world through someone else’s eyes, and idioms encapsulate this beautifully. The Spanish phrase “ponerse en los zapatos de alguien” and its English counterpart “put yourself in someone’s shoes” illustrate the importance of understanding another’s perspective.
Spanish example: "Antes de criticarlo, deberías ponerte en sus zapatos." English example: "Before criticizing him, you should try putting yourself in his shoes." Idioms About Courage in English and Spanish Facing challenges requires bravery, and both languages have idioms to convey this. In English, "bite the bullet" means enduring pain with determination. Spanish uses “hacer de tripas corazón,” which translates to turning your guts into a heart—a graphic metaphor for mustering courage.
Spanish example: "¡Haz de tripas corazón e invítala a salir!" English example: "Bite the bullet and ask her out!"
Grammar
15 frases hechas o “idioms” en inglés para el día a día (por niveles)
Los “idioms” son modismos o frases hechas muy utilizadas para expresar ideas, opiniones o sensaciones en inglés. Estos te servirán para enriquecer tus conversaciones cotidianas.
Idioms About Revealing Secrets in English and Spanish Secrets have a way of slipping out, as reflected in the English idiom "spill the beans." This phrase vividly captures the unintentional revelation of confidential information. A similar idea exists in Spanish with "soltar la lengua," though the metaphor differs slightly, as it implies loosening one’s tongue.
Spanish example: "Accidentalmente soltó la lengua sobre la fiesta sorpresa." English example: "She accidentally spilled the beans about the surprise party." Idioms About Underperforming in English and Spanish Life’s stumbles are often encapsulated in idioms. In Spanish, "no dar pie con bola" conveys a sense of complete ineffectiveness, whether in understanding or action. The English equivalent "not be on the ball" suggests someone is not performing well.
Spanish example: "La chica no había dado pie con bola en el colegio". English example: "The girl had not been on the ball at school." Idioms about Time Passing Time has a way of slipping by unnoticed, especially when we’re enjoying ourselves. Both English and Spanish have idioms to capture this feeling. In Spanish, "el tiempo vuela" and in English it’s the same - "time flies"!
Spanish example: "El tiempo vuela cuando te diviertes". English example: "Time flies when you’re having fun." Idioms in English and Spanish about Ignoring Things Sometimes, we choose to overlook things, whether out of convenience or kindness. The Spanish idiom "hacer la vista gorda" and the English phrase "turn a blind eye" are similar, both evoking the image of someone deliberately ignoring a fault or error.
Spanish example: "Ella hizo la vista gorda a sus errores". English example: "She turned a blind eye to his mistakes." Idioms about Fussing: Spanish and English comparison Life can be full of drama and sometimes we want to "montar un pollo/ hacer un escándalo" (Spanish) or "make a fuss" (English). Both phrases capture the idea of creating unnecessary commotion.
Spanish example: "Ella no quería que la gente hiciera un escándalo por su cumpleaños". English example: "She didn’t want people to make a fuss for her birthday." Idioms About Being Overwhelmed: English and Spanish When life becomes overwhelming, it’s common to hear the Spanish phrase "estar hasta el cuello" or the English equivalent "be up to your eyes in" or "have a lot on your plate". These idioms vividly convey the feeling of being completely overwhelmed.
Spanish example: "Estoy hasta el cuello del trabajo". English example: "I’m up to my eyes in work." English example: "I have a lot on my plate at the moment." Idioms About relaxing in English and Spanish Finally, we all need moments to unwind. The Spanish idiom "soltarse el pelo" and the English "let your hair down" evoke a sense of letting loose and enjoying oneself.
Spanish example: "Me gusta soltarme el pelo con un cóctel". English example: "I like to let my hair down with a cocktail." Meaning of Popular Idioms in English Be on cloud nine: Feel extremely happy or joyful. Be over the moon: Be thrilled or delighted. Put yourself in someone’s shoes: Imagine what it would be like to be in another person’s situation. Bite the bullet: Do something difficult or unpleasant that you’ve been avoiding. Spill the beans: Reveal secret or confidential information. Be on the ball: Be alert and quick to respond. Time flies: Time passes very quickly. Turn a blind eye: Ignore something or pretend not to notice. Make a fuss: Complain or become upset about something trivial. Be up to your eyes in/ have a lot on your plate: Be extremely busy or overwhelmed with work or responsibility. Let your hair down: enjoy yourself, perhaps at a party. Practise these idioms in a crossword .
