Spanish Idioms

In this lesson, we’re going to examine the meanings behind ten more Spanish idioms. Knowing basic idiomatic expressions can increase your understanding of any language, not to mention your degree of acceptance by native speakers. With that in mind, we’ve included the literal meaning, the figurative meaning, and an equivalent English expression for each Spanish idiom.

 

If you need more help with idioms, or any other aspect of the Spanish language, contact the Language Island in Atlanta. Our caring, passionate Spanish teachers can create a lesson plan that is tailored to your individual needs.

 

Abrir la caja de los truenos

Literal meaning: To open the box of thunder

Figurative meaning: To examine or attempt to solve some problem, only to inadvertently complicate it and create even more trouble

English equivalent: To open a can of worms

 

Atar corto a alguien

Literal meaning: Tie someone close

Figurative meaning: Keep someone under close observation

English equivalent: Keep on a short leash

 

Cien por cien

Literal meaning: One-hundred by one-hundred

Figurative meaning: 100 percent; with certainty; precisely

English equivalent: Dead on; spot on

 

Con toda la barba

Literal meaning: With the entire beard

Figurative meaning: Absolutely genuine

English equivalent: The real deal

 

De perlas

Literal meaning: of pearls

Figurative meaning: Precisely what someone needs

English equivalent: Just what the doctor ordered

 

Dejar en paz

Literal meaning: To leave in peace

Figurative meaning: Leave alone; let it be

English equivalent: Let sleeping dogs lie

 

Echar ajos y cebollas

Literal meaning: Throw garlic and onions

Figurative meaning: To respond with anger and indignation

English equivalent: Rant and rave

 

Entrar a saco

Literal meaning: To enter at sack

Figurative meaning: Enter suddenly and dramatically

English equivalent: Burst in; storm in

 

Hacer la barba a alguien

Literal meaning: To do the beard to someone

Figurative meaning: To court favor with or ingratiate yourself to someone

English equivalent: Butter up; suck up

 

Irse al otro barrio

Literal meaning: To go to another neighborhood

Figurative meaning: To die

English equivalent: Kick the bucket