arresto
/ah-RREHS-toh/
arrest
The legal action of detaining someone is known as an "arresto."
arresto(noun)
arrest
?legal action of detaining someone
detention
?the act of restraining someone
,apprehension
?formal term for capture
📝 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.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Masculine
Even though it ends in '-o', remember that 'arresto' is always a masculine noun, meaning you use 'el' or 'un' with it.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using the Wrong Verb
Mistake: "Hacer un arresto"
Correction: Realizar un arresto (or simply 'arrestar'). Spanish speakers usually use 'realizar' (to carry out) or the verb 'arrestar' (to arrest) instead of 'hacer' (to make).
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Context
This word is often used in formal or serious contexts, like news reports or legal documents. In casual talk, people might just say 'la detención' or 'lo agarraron' (they grabbed him).
"Arresto" can also be used to refer to bravery or courage.
📝 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.
💡 Grammar Points
Figurative Plural
When used to mean 'courage' or 'guts,' it is very commonly used in the plural form: 'los arrestos'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use with 'Tener'
The easiest way to use this meaning is with the verb 'tener' (to have): 'Tener los arrestos para...' (To have the courage to...).
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: arresto
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'arresto' in its figurative meaning of 'courage'?
📚 More Resources
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.