arranque
“arranque” means “start” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
start, ignitionAlso: kickoff, starter
📝 In Action
El motor de arranque del coche hace un ruido extraño.
A2The car's starter motor is making a strange noise.
El arranque del proyecto fue un gran éxito.
B1The project's kickoff was a big success.
Necesitamos un buen arranque para ganar la carrera.
A2We need a good start to win the race.
Word Connections
outburst, fitAlso: sudden impulse
📝 In Action
En un arranque de ira, rompió el contrato.
B2In a fit of rage, he tore up the contract.
Fue un arranque de generosidad inesperado.
C1It was an unexpected outburst of generosity.
No le hagas caso, es solo un arranque de locura.
B2Don't mind him, it's just a sudden moment of madness.
Word Connections
start / pull out
📝 In Action
Espero que el coche arranque pronto.
B1I hope the car starts soon.
No quiere que yo arranque las malas hierbas.
B1He doesn't want me to pull out the weeds.
¡Arranque el motor ahora!
B1Start the engine now! (Formal command)
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: arranque
Question 1 of 3
Which phrase describes a 'starter motor' in a car?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
📚 Etymology
From the Spanish verb 'arrancar', which likely comes from a combination of Latin and Germanic roots meaning 'to pull up by the roots'. It evolved from the physical act of pulling something to the energetic act of starting a motor or an emotion.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'arranque' and 'inicio' the same?
Not exactly. 'Inicio' is a general word for 'beginning.' 'Arranque' usually implies a forceful start, like an engine firing up or a sudden burst of energy.
Why is it 'arranque' and not 'arrancé'?
'Arranqué' (with an accent) is the past tense 'I started.' 'Arranque' (no accent) is the noun 'the start' or the special verb form for wishes and commands.
Can I use 'arranque' for a person's personality?
Yes! If you say someone has 'arranque,' it means they are proactive and have a lot of initiative.