arresto
“arresto” means “arrest” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
arrest
Also: detention, apprehension
📝 In Action
La policía ejecutó el arresto sin resistencia.
B1The police carried out the arrest without resistance.
El sospechoso quedó bajo arresto domiciliario.
B2The suspect remained under house arrest.
El juez firmó la orden de arresto ayer.
B1The judge signed the arrest warrant yesterday.
courage
Also: nerve, guts
📝 In Action
No tuvo los arrestos para confesar su error.
C1He didn't have the nerve (or guts) to confess his mistake.
Se necesita mucho arresto para iniciar un negocio así.
C2It takes a lot of spirit to start a business like that.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: arresto
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'arresto' in its figurative meaning of 'courage'?
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📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the verb 'arrestar,' which itself has roots in ancient Germanic languages, originally meaning 'to stop' or 'to restrain.' This root explains both the modern meaning of 'detention' and the figurative meaning of 'restrained spirit' or 'courage.'
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'arresto' the same as 'detención'?
'Arresto' and 'detención' are very similar. 'Arresto' usually implies a formal, legal action, often involving a court order, like 'house arrest' (arresto domiciliario). 'Detención' is generally a more immediate, temporary stop or holding by the police.
Why is 'arrestos' (plural) used for courage?
The use of the plural form 'los arrestos' for courage or nerve is idiomatic. It's just a set phrase Spanish speakers use, similar to how English uses 'guts' (plural) to mean courage.