vistazo
bees-TAH-soh
📝 In Action
Le di un vistazo rápido al documento antes de la reunión.
A2I gave the document a quick glance before the meeting.
¿Puedes echar un vistazo a mi coche? Hace un ruido raro.
B1Can you take a look at my car? It's making a weird noise.
Con un solo vistazo, supo que algo andaba mal.
B1With just one glance, she knew something was wrong.
💡 Grammar Points
The '-azo' Ending
'Vistazo' comes from 'vista' (view/sight). The ending '-azo' in Spanish often suggests a quick, sharp action or a hit. So, a 'vistazo' is like a 'quick hit' with your eyes.
❌ Common Pitfalls
It's a Noun, Not a Verb
Mistake: "Don't say: 'Yo vistazo el libro.' (I glance the book.)"
Correction: Say: 'Yo le echo un vistazo al libro.' (Literally: I throw a glance at the book.) 'Vistazo' is a thing (a noun), not an action (a verb). You need a verb like 'echar' (to throw) or 'dar' (to give) to perform the action.
⭐ Usage Tips
The Golden Phrase: 'Echar un vistazo'
The most common and natural way to say 'to take a look' or 'to have a glance' is 'echar un vistazo'. Think of it as a single unit. You'll hear and use it constantly.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: vistazo
Question 1 of 1
Which verb correctly completes this sentence: 'Voy a ______ un vistazo al informe.'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'vistazo' and 'mirada'?
'Vistazo' always means a quick, brief look, like a 'glance' or a 'peek'. 'Mirada' is more general; it can be a quick look or a long, intense stare. If you're just checking something quickly, 'vistazo' is the perfect word.
Can I use verbs other than 'echar' with 'vistazo'?
Yes, although 'echar un vistazo' is the most common. You can also say 'dar un vistazo' (to give a glance), which is very similar. 'Echar' is just a bit more common in everyday speech.