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THE INKLINGO LANGUAGE GUIDES

110 Spanish Idioms & Proverbs

These Spanish expressions explain much more than a word-for-word translation can. Keep the literal image in mind, then use the example to learn the actual meaning; the guide preserves useful entries from the original collection and separates complete proverbs from idioms.

110 entries · Updated

An open storybook beside a small cup and a leafy branch, a welcoming reading scene

Essential 20

  1. Costar un ojo de la caraTo be extremely expensive
  2. Estar en las nubesTo be distracted or daydreaming
  3. Echar una manoTo help someone
  4. Dar en el clavoTo be exactly right
  5. Meter la pataTo make a mistake or say something embarrassing
  6. Tomar el peloTo tease or trick someone
  7. Ponerse las pilasTo become more energetic, focused, or productive
  8. Hablar por los codosTo talk a lot
  9. Tirar la toallaTo give up
  10. Ser pan comidoTo be extremely easy
  11. Irse por las ramasTo avoid the main subject or go off on tangents
  12. Hacer la vista gordaTo deliberately ignore something wrong
  13. Buscar una aguja en un pajarTo search for something almost impossible to find
  14. Ahogarse en un vaso de aguaTo become overwhelmed by a very small problem
  15. Estar entre la espada y la paredTo be trapped between two difficult choices
  16. Romper el hieloTo make people more comfortable when meeting
  17. Echar leña al fuegoTo make a conflict worse
  18. Estar como una cabraTo be crazy or eccentric
  19. Estar como pez en el aguaTo feel completely comfortable in a situation
  20. No tener pelos en la lenguaTo speak very directly without holding back

Essential everyday Spanish idioms

Learn the expression with its situation, then try a small change to the example.

A hand helping lift a box beside a small ladder
1

un de la

To be extremely expensive

Literally: To cost an eye from your face

Closest English expression: To cost an arm and a leg

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

This is one of the most recognizable Spanish idioms and can be used throughout the Spanish-speaking world.

In a sentence

Ese un ojo de la cara.
That restaurant costs an arm and a leg.
A surprised shopper holding an eye-shaped jewel beside an empty purse.Source note
2

Estar en las nubes

To be distracted or daydreaming

Literally: To be in the clouds

Closest English expression: To be distracted or daydreaming

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

estás en las . ¿Me estás escuchando?
You're daydreaming today. Are you listening to me?
A daydreaming person sitting safely on a soft floating cloud, feet dangling and gaze drifting upwardSource note
3

Echar una mano

To help someone

Literally: To throw a hand

Closest English expression: To lend a hand

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

¿Me echas una mano con estas cajas?
Can you give me a hand with these boxes?
One person extending a helping hand to lift a heavy basket with another personSource note
4

en el clavo

To be exactly right

Literally: To hit the nail

Closest English expression: To be exactly right

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Has en el clavo. Ese era el .
You've hit the nail on the head. That was exactly the problem.
A small hammer striking one nail exactly on its head, with the nail firmly centered in a wooden blockSource note
5

la

To make a mistake or say something embarrassing

Literally: To put the leg/paw in

Closest English expression: To make a mistake or say something embarrassing

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Metí la pata y le pregunté por su exnovio.
I put my foot in it and asked her about her ex-boyfriend.
A sheepish person with one boot accidentally planted in a bucket, a gentle visual mistakeSource note
6

Estar como en el

To feel completely comfortable in a situation

Literally: To be like a fish in water

Closest English expression: To feel completely comfortable in a situation

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

María está como pez en el agua en .
María is completely in her element when speaking in public.
A relaxed fish swimming freely inside a clear blue pool of waterSource note
7

el

To tease or trick someone

Literally: To take someone's hair

Closest English expression: To pull someone's leg

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

¿Hablas en o me estás tomando el pelo?
Are you serious or are you pulling my leg?
A mischievous friend gently tugging one loose lock of another smiling person’s hair, friendly teasingSource note
8

Ponerse las pilas

To become more energetic, focused, or productive

Literally: To put in the batteries

Closest English expression: To become more energetic, focused, or productive

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Tenemos el examen el . Hay que ponerse las pilas.
We have the exam on Friday. We need to get our act together.
A cheerful toy person opening a small backpack to reveal two bright batteries, newly ready for action

See it in a story: Un Día en la Estación Espacial Internacional: Conversaciones en Español desde el Espacio (B1)

Source note
9

No tener en la

To speak very directly without holding back

Literally: To have no hairs on your tongue

Closest English expression: To speak very directly without holding back

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Mi no tiene pelos en la lengua.
My grandmother always says exactly what she thinks.
A confident woman speaking directly and openlySource note
10

Hablar por los

To talk a lot

Literally: To talk through your elbows

Closest English expression: To talk a lot

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Carlos habla por los codos. No para .
Carlos talks nonstop. He never stops.
A lively storyteller gesturing with bent elbows while a patient friend listens, small blank speech bubbles beside the elbowsSource note

Explore these words: Body parts (flashcards) · Shopping (flashcards) · Money & banking (flashcards)

Put these words into context with a story at your level.

Read Spanish stories

Spanish idioms about difficulty, mistakes, and problems

Learn the expression with its situation, then try a small change to the example.

A glass of water beside a tiny paper boat
11

Quedarse de piedra

To be stunned or shocked

Literally: To turn to stone

Closest English expression: To be stunned or shocked

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

me dijo que se iba a , me quedé de piedra.
When she told me she was getting married, I was stunned.
Source note
12

la toalla

To give up

Literally: To throw in the towel

Closest English expression: To give up

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

El español es , pero no voy a tirar la toalla.
Spanish is difficult, but I'm not going to give up.
A tired athlete tossing a white towel onto a stool.Source note
13

Ser

To be extremely easy

Literally: To be eaten bread

Closest English expression: To be a piece of cake

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Después de practicar , el examen fue pan comido.
After practicing so much, the exam was a piece of cake.
A tiny plate holding a slice of bread with one easy bite already taken, a relaxed satisfied hand nearbySource note
14

Estar hasta las narices

To be completely fed up

Literally: To be up to your nostrils

Closest English expression: To be completely fed up

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Estoy hasta las narices de este .
I'm completely fed up with this noise.
Source note
15

Irse por las ramas

To avoid the main subject or go off on tangents

Literally: To go off through the branches

Closest English expression: To avoid the main subject or go off on tangents

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

No te vayas por las ramas. qué pasó.
Don't beat around the bush. Tell me what happened.
A person on a tree branch pointing toward branches that fork in different directionsSource note
16

Hacer la vista gorda

To deliberately ignore something wrong

Literally: To make the fat eyesight

Closest English expression: To turn a blind eye

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

El hizo la vista gorda y no dijo nada.
The teacher turned a blind eye and said nothing.
A person looking deliberately away while a small harmless mishap happens beside them, one eye partly covered by a handSource note
17

Estar hecho

To be exhausted or emotionally devastated

Literally: To be made into dust

Closest English expression: To be exhausted or emotionally devastated

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Después de estoy hecho polvo.
After working twelve hours, I'm exhausted.
Source note
18

a

To sleep deeply and peacefully

Literally: To sleep with a loose leg

Closest English expression: To sleep deeply and peacefully

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

dormí a pierna suelta.
I slept like a log last night.
Source note
19

una en un pajar

To search for something almost impossible to find

Literally: To look for a needle in a haystack

Closest English expression: To search for something almost impossible to find

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

ese será como una en un pajar.
Finding that document will be like looking for a needle in a haystack.
A magnifying glass searching a compact haystack for one tiny silver sewing needleSource note
20

Ahogarse en un vaso de

To become overwhelmed by a very small problem

Literally: To drown in a glass of water

Closest English expression: To become overwhelmed by a very small problem

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

te ahogas en un vaso de agua. Tiene solución.
You always turn tiny problems into disasters. It can be fixed.
A miniature worried person safely standing in a shallow drinking glass, dramatizing an ordinary splashSource note

Explore these words: Time & dates (flashcards) · Quantities & measurements (flashcards) · Jobs & work (flashcards)

Put these words into context with a story at your level.

Read Spanish stories

Spanish idioms involving the body

Body parts appear constantly in Spanish figurative expressions.

A gold heart ornament beside an open hand
21

Tener un corazón de

To be extremely kind

Literally: To have a heart of gold

Closest English expression: To be extremely kind

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Ana tiene un corazón de . ayuda a todo el .
Ana has a heart of gold. She always helps everyone.
Source note
22

No dos de

To lack common sense

Literally: To not have two fingers of forehead

Closest English expression: To lack common sense

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Hay que no dos dedos de frente para hacer algo así.
You'd have to have no common sense to do something like that.
Source note
23

Tener la mosca de la

To suspect that something is wrong

Literally: To have the fly behind your ear

Closest English expression: To suspect that something is wrong

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Desde que vi ese mensaje tengo la mosca detrás de la oreja.
Ever since I saw that message, I've been suspicious.
Source note
24

Estar con el al

To be in serious difficulty

Literally: To have water up to your neck

Closest English expression: To be in serious difficulty

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Estoy con el agua al cuello con todas estas .
I'm in serious trouble with all these debts.
Source note
25

Poner el en la llaga

To identify or bring up a painful problem

Literally: To put your finger in the wound

Closest English expression: To identify or bring up a painful problem

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Con esa pusiste el dedo en la llaga.
With that question, you touched on the real painful issue.
Source note
26

Tener algo en la punta de la

To almost remember something

Literally: To have something on the tip of your tongue

Closest English expression: To almost remember something

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

cómo se . Lo tengo en la punta de la .
I know what he's called. It's on the tip of my tongue.
Source note
27

Romperse la

To think very hard about something

Literally: To break one's head

Closest English expression: To think very hard about something

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Llevo toda la rompiéndome la cabeza con este .
I've been racking my brain over this problem all afternoon.
Source note
28

Tener mano izquierda

To be tactful and diplomatic

Literally: To have a left hand

Closest English expression: To be tactful and diplomatic

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Hace falta mucha mano izquierda para manejar esa .
You need a lot of tact to handle that situation.
Source note
29

No

To not sleep at all

Literally: To not stick an eye

Closest English expression: To not sleep at all

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Había que no pegué ojo.
There was so much noise that I didn't sleep a wink.
Source note
30

Lavarse las manos

To refuse responsibility for something

Literally: To wash one's hands

Closest English expression: To refuse responsibility for something

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

El se lavó las manos y nos dejó el .
The boss washed his hands of it and left us to solve the problem.
Source note

Explore these words: Body parts (flashcards) · Shapes, sizes & materials (flashcards) · Accessories & jewelry (flashcards)

Put these words into context with a story at your level.

Read Spanish stories

Spanish food and drink idioms

Spanish speakers somehow manage to turn food into metaphors for almost everything.

A flan trembling on a plate beside a tomato
31

Estar como un flan

To be extremely nervous or shaky

Literally: To be like a flan

Closest English expression: To be extremely nervous or shaky

Conversational · Especially common in Spain

In a sentence

de la estaba como un flan.
Before the interview I was a nervous wreck.
Source note
32

Importar un pepino

To not matter at all

Literally: To matter a cucumber

Closest English expression: To not matter at all

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Me importa un pepino lo que .
I couldn't care less what he says.
Source note
33

Ser del año de la pera

To be extremely old or outdated

Literally: To be from the year of the pear

Closest English expression: To be extremely old or outdated

Conversational · Common in Spain

In a sentence

Ese es del año de la pera.
That computer is ancient.
Source note
34

Dar calabazas

To romantically reject someone

Literally: To give pumpkins

Closest English expression: To romantically reject someone

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Le pidió salir, pero ella le dio calabazas.
He asked her out, but she turned him down.
Source note
35

Ponerse como un

To turn very red from embarrassment

Literally: To become like a tomato

Closest English expression: To turn very red from embarrassment

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Se puso como un tomate todos empezaron a mirarlo.
He turned bright red when everyone started looking at him.
Source note
36

Estar de

To be in a very bad mood

Literally: To be of bad milk

Closest English expression: To be in a very bad mood

Conversational · Informal

In a sentence

Déjalo tranquilo. está de mala leche.
Leave him alone. He's in a terrible mood today.
Source note
37

Tener

To have a bad temper or nasty disposition

Literally: To have bad grapes

Closest English expression: To have a bad temper or nasty disposition

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Ese tiene muy mala uva.
That man has a really nasty temper.
Source note
38

el bacalao

To be the person in charge

Literally: To cut the cod

Closest English expression: To be the person in charge

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

quien corta el bacalao es Marta.
Marta is the one calling the shots here.
Source note
39

No estar el para bollos

It is not a good time to create more trouble

Literally: The oven isn't ready for buns

Closest English expression: It is not a good time to create more trouble

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

No le preguntes ahora. No está el horno para bollos.
Don't ask him now. This is really not the time.
Source note
40

Poner toda la en el asador

To give something everything you've got

Literally: To put all the meat on the grill

Closest English expression: To give something everything you've got

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Vamos a poner toda la carne en el asador para .
We're going to give it everything we've got to win.
Source note

Explore these words: Time & dates (flashcards) · Food & cooking (flashcards) · Technology & phones (flashcards)

Put these words into context with a story at your level.

Read Spanish stories

Spanish animal idioms

Learn the expression with its situation, then try a small change to the example.

A goat standing on a small rock
41

Estar como una

To be crazy or eccentric

Literally: To be like a goat

Closest English expression: To be crazy or eccentric

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Mi está como una cabra, pero es divertidísimo.
My uncle is crazy, but he's hilarious.
A playful goat hopping sideways with an exaggerated surprised expressionSource note
42

dos de un

To accomplish two things at once

Literally: To kill two birds with one shot

Closest English expression: To accomplish two things at once

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Voy al trabajo y hago ejercicio. Mato dos de un tiro.
I walk to work and get exercise. I kill two birds with one stone.
Source note
43

Ser la oveja

To be the odd or disapproved-of member of a group

Literally: To be the black sheep

Closest English expression: To be the odd or disapproved-of member of a group

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

fue la oveja de la .
He was always the black sheep of the family.
Source note
44

Estar hecho un

To be very strong and healthy

Literally: To be made like a bull

Closest English expression: To be very strong and healthy

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Después de entrenando está hecho un toro.
After six months of training, he's incredibly strong.
Source note
45

Ser un gallina

To be a coward

Literally: To be a chicken

Closest English expression: To be a coward

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

¡No seas gallina! Súbete a la montaña rusa.
Don't be a chicken! Get on the roller coaster.
Source note
46

Llevarse como el y el

To constantly argue

Literally: To get along like the dog and the cat

Closest English expression: To constantly argue

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Esos dos se llevan como el y el .
Those two fight like cats and dogs.
Source note
47

de cocodrilo

Fake sadness

Literally: Crocodile tears

Closest English expression: Fake sadness

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

No me creo sus de cocodrilo.
I don't believe his crocodile tears.
Source note

Explore these words: Animals (flashcards) · Family & relationships (flashcards) · Colors (flashcards)

Put these words into context with a story at your level.

Read Spanish stories

Spanish idioms about people and relationships

Learn the expression with its situation, then try a small change to the example.

Two friends sharing bread at a table
48

Hacer buenas migas

To get along very well

Literally: To make good crumbs

Closest English expression: To get along very well

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Ana y Laura hicieron buenas migas desde el primer .
Ana and Laura hit it off from the first day.
Source note
49

Romper el

To make people more comfortable when meeting

Literally: To break the ice

Closest English expression: To make people more comfortable when meeting

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Contó un chiste para romper el .
He told a joke to break the ice.
An ice cube cracked open by a small wooden mallet, two newly acquainted people smiling behind itSource note
50

Caer bien

To make a good personal impression; to be likable to someone

Literally: To fall well

Closest English expression: To like someone (with the experiencer as the English subject)

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

The opposite is caer mal — to dislike someone.

In a sentence

Tu me cae muy bien.
I really like your sister.
Source note
51

Dar la lata

To annoy or bother someone

Literally: To give the can

Closest English expression: To annoy or bother someone

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Los niños llevan toda la dando la lata.
The kids have been pestering us all afternoon.
Source note
52

al fuego

To make a conflict worse

Literally: To throw firewood onto the fire

Closest English expression: To make a conflict worse

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

eso ahora. vas a leña al fuego.
Don't mention that now. You'll only add fuel to the fire.
A person adding a log to a small campfireSource note
53

Hacer la

To flatter someone in order to gain favor

Literally: To make the ball

Closest English expression: To flatter someone in order to gain favor

Conversational · Common in Spain

In a sentence

le hace la pelota al .
He's always sucking up to the boss.
Source note
54

Poner a alguien verde

To criticize or gossip harshly about someone

Literally: To turn someone green

Closest English expression: To criticize or gossip harshly about someone

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

En cuanto se fue, empezaron a ponerlo verde.
As soon as he left, they started tearing him apart.
Source note
55

plantado a alguien

To stand someone up

Literally: To leave someone planted

Closest English expression: To stand someone up

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

a las y me dejó plantada.
We arranged to meet at eight and he stood me up.
Source note
56

Dar la

To face responsibility instead of hiding

Literally: To give/show the face

Closest English expression: To face responsibility instead of hiding

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Cometiste el . Ahora que dar la .
You made the mistake. Now you need to face the consequences.
Source note
57

Dar la espalda

To abandon or reject someone

Literally: To give someone your back

Closest English expression: To abandon or reject someone

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Sus le dieron la espalda más los necesitaba.
His friends turned their backs on him when he needed them most.
Source note

Explore these words: Time & dates (flashcards) · Jobs & work (flashcards) · Weather (flashcards)

Put these words into context with a story at your level.

Read Spanish stories

Spanish money and work idioms

Learn the expression with its situation, then try a small change to the example.

A purse beside a belt and a loaf of bread
58

Estar sin blanca

To be broke

Literally: To be without a blanca

Closest English expression: To be broke

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

No puedo salir este de semana. Estoy sin blanca.
I can't go out this weekend. I'm broke.
Source note
59

la casa por la

To spend lavishly, usually for a celebration

Literally: To throw the house out the window

Closest English expression: To spend lavishly, usually for a celebration

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Para su tiraron la casa por la ventana.
They spared no expense for their wedding.
Source note
60

Hacer el

To make a lot of money from a favorable opportunity

Literally: To make the August

Closest English expression: To make a lot of money from a favorable opportunity

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Los hoteles hacen el agosto durante el .
The hotels make a killing during the festival.
Source note
61

Apretarse el cinturón

To spend less money

Literally: To tighten one's belt

Closest English expression: To spend less money

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Este tendremos que apretarnos el cinturón.
We'll have to tighten our belts this month.
Source note
62

Ganarse el

To earn a living

Literally: To earn one's bread

Closest English expression: To earn a living

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Se gana el pan de .
He earns his living working as a mechanic.
Source note
63

No palo al

To do absolutely no work

Literally: To not hit the water with a stick

Closest English expression: To do absolutely no work

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Lleva toda la sin dar palo al agua.
He hasn't done a thing all morning.
Source note
64

Ponerse manos a la

To start working

Literally: To put one's hands to the work

Closest English expression: To start working

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Ya tenemos un . Pongámonos a la .
We have a plan. Let's get to work.
Source note
65

Arrimar el

To help with a shared effort

Literally: To bring one's shoulder closer

Closest English expression: To help with a shared effort

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Si todos arrimamos el hombro, terminaremos antes.
If everyone pitches in, we'll finish sooner.
Source note
66

Sacar algo adelante

To successfully get through or complete something difficult

Literally: To bring something forward

Closest English expression: To successfully get through or complete something difficult

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Sacó adelante el durante una época muy .
She kept the business going through a very difficult period.
Source note
67

como un

To work extremely hard

Literally: To work like a donkey

Closest English expression: To work extremely hard

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

He trabajado como un burro toda la .
I've worked incredibly hard all week.
Source note

Explore these words: Time & dates (flashcards) · Jobs & work (flashcards) · Seasons & celebrations (flashcards)

Put these words into context with a story at your level.

Read Spanish stories

Spanish idioms for difficult situations

Learn the expression with its situation, then try a small change to the example.

A frying pan with an omelet being turned
68

Salir del

To solve a problem temporarily or somehow get through a situation

Literally: To get out of the passage

Closest English expression: To solve a problem temporarily or somehow get through a situation

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Esta nos servirá para salir del paso.
This solution will get us by for now.
Source note
69

con pies de plomo

To proceed extremely carefully

Literally: To walk with lead feet

Closest English expression: To proceed extremely carefully

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

En una negociación así hay que andar con pies de plomo.
You need to tread very carefully in a negotiation like this.
Source note
70

Tocar

To reach one's lowest point

Literally: To touch the bottom

Closest English expression: To reach one's lowest point

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Tuvo que tocar de cambiar su vida.
He had to hit rock bottom before changing his life.
Source note
71

Echar por la borda

To ruin or waste something valuable

Literally: To throw overboard

Closest English expression: To ruin or waste something valuable

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

No voy a echar por la borda años de trabajo.
I'm not going to throw away years of work.
Source note
72

Dar la vuelta a la

To completely reverse a situation

Literally: To flip the omelet

Closest English expression: To turn the tables

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Parecía que iban a perder, pero dieron la vuelta a la tortilla.
It looked like they would lose, but they turned the situation around.
Source note
73

Estar entre la y la

To be trapped between two difficult choices

Literally: To be between the sword and the wall

Closest English expression: To be between a rock and a hard place

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Estoy entre la espada y la pared.
I'm between a rock and a hard place.
A worried figure between a stone wall and a blunt decorative sword resting harmlessly nearby, no wound or threat in motionSource note
74

Coger el por los cuernos

To confront a difficult situation directly

Literally: To grab the bull by the horns

Closest English expression: To confront a difficult situation directly

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

You may also hear tomar el toro por los cuernos.

In a sentence

Tenemos que coger el toro por los cuernos y resolver esto.
We need to face this problem head-on.
Source note
75

Estar contra las

To be under severe pressure with few options left

Literally: To be against the ropes

Closest English expression: To be under severe pressure with few options left

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

La está contra las .
The company is on the ropes.
Source note
76

el por la culata

For a plan to backfire

Literally: For the shot to come out through the gunstock

Closest English expression: For a plan to backfire

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Intentó engañarlos, pero el tiro le salió por la culata.
He tried to trick them, but the plan backfired.
Source note
77

Caer en roto

For advice or information to be ignored

Literally: To fall into a torn sack

Closest English expression: For advice or information to be ignored

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Todos mis cayeron en saco roto.
All my advice fell on deaf ears.
Source note

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Spanish idioms about thoughts and emotions

Learn the expression with its situation, then try a small change to the example.

Small butterflies beside a person holding their stomach
78

Comerse el

To overthink or worry excessively

Literally: To eat one's coconut

Closest English expression: To overthink or worry excessively

Conversational · Common in Spain

In a sentence

No te comas el coco. Todo va a salir bien.
Don't overthink it. Everything will be fine.
Source note
79

Quedarse en

To suddenly forget what you wanted to say or remember

Literally: To be left blank

Closest English expression: To suddenly forget what you wanted to say or remember

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

En del examen me quedé en .
My mind went completely blank in the middle of the exam.
Source note
80

Perder los estribos

To lose control of your temper

Literally: To lose the stirrups

Closest English expression: To lose control of your temper

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Perdió los estribos y empezó a .
He lost his temper and started shouting.
Source note
81

Estar que echa

To be furious

Literally: To be giving off smoke

Closest English expression: To be furious

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

No hables con él ahora. Está que echa humo.
Don't talk to him now. He's furious.
Source note
82

Tener en el

To feel nervous excitement

Literally: To have butterflies in your stomach

Closest English expression: To feel nervous excitement

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

de verla tengo en el estómago.
I always get butterflies before seeing her.
Source note
83

Ponerse de los nervios

To become extremely nervous or irritated

Literally: To become of the nerves

Closest English expression: To become extremely nervous or irritated

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Ese me pone de los nervios.
That noise drives me crazy.
Source note
84

Verlo todo

To be extremely pessimistic

Literally: To see everything black

Closest English expression: To be extremely pessimistic

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Después de perder el trabajo lo veía todo negro.
After losing his job, everything seemed hopeless.
Source note
85

Estar verde

To be inexperienced or not ready yet

Literally: To be green

Closest English expression: To be inexperienced or not ready yet

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

está un poco verde para ese .
He's still a little inexperienced for that position.
Source note
86

No caber en sí de alegría

To be extremely happy

Literally: To not fit inside oneself from happiness

Closest English expression: To be extremely happy

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

recibió la no cabía en sí de .
When she got the news, she was beside herself with joy.
Source note
87

Quedarse con la

To be amazed

Literally: To be left with one's mouth open

Closest English expression: To be amazed

Conversational · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

El final de la película me dejó con la boca abierta.
The ending of the movie left me speechless.
Source note

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Colorful expressions from Spain and Latin America

Some idioms immediately reveal where a speaker comes from.

A globe beside a pair of binoculars
88

Flipar en colores

To be completely amazed

Literally: To freak out in colors

Closest English expression: To be completely amazed

Conversational · Spain

In a sentence

veas la casa vas a flipar en colores.
When you see the house, you're going to be blown away.
Source note
89

Estar al loro

To pay attention or stay informed

Literally: To be at the parrot

Closest English expression: To pay attention or stay informed

Conversational · Spain

In a sentence

Estate al loro por si el .
Keep an eye out in case the schedule changes.
Source note
90

Ser la

To be amazing, extraordinary, or sometimes outrageous

Literally: To be the milk

Closest English expression: To be amazing, extraordinary, or sometimes outrageous

Conversational · Spain

In a sentence

Ese fue la leche.
That concert was incredible.
Source note
91

Caer el

To finally understand or realize something

Literally: For the twenty to fall

Closest English expression: To finally understand or realize something

Conversational · Mexico

In a sentence

De me cayó el veinte y entendí lo que quería decir.
Suddenly it clicked and I understood what he meant.
Source note
92

Echar carrilla

To tease or give someone a hard time

Literally: To throw teasing or ridicule at someone

Closest English expression: To tease or give someone a hard time

Conversational · Mexico

In a sentence

Mis me echan carrilla por mi .
My friends always tease me about my accent.
Source note
93

Estar

To be very difficult or a serious problem

Literally: To be cannon-like

Closest English expression: To be really tough

Conversational · Mexico

In a sentence

El examen estuvo cañón.
The exam was really tough.
Source note
94

Hazme el paro

Do me a favor / Help me out

Literally: Do the favor for me (paro is a regional word for help)

Closest English expression: Do me a favor / Help me out

Conversational · Mexico

In a sentence

Hazme el paro y préstame tu cargador.
Do me a favor and lend me your charger.
Source note
95

Hacerse bolas

To become confused

Literally: To make oneself into balls

Closest English expression: To become confused

Conversational · Especially Mexico

In a sentence

Me hice bolas con las .
I got completely confused by all the instructions.
Source note
96

Andar como sin manija

To be aimless, confused, or running around without direction

Literally: To go around like a ball without a handle

Closest English expression: To be aimless, confused, or running around without direction

Conversational · Argentina (disoriented); Uruguay (rushing about busily)

In a sentence

ando como bola sin manija con lo que tengo que hacer.
I'm running around completely lost today with everything I have to do.
Source note

Explore these words: Time & dates (flashcards) · Question words · Drinks (flashcards)

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Spanish proverbs and sayings

A proverb is a whole piece of folk advice. It can be wise, teasing or ironic depending on the situation.

A bird resting in an open hand beside a leafy branch
97

el no , los ratones

People misbehave when the person in charge is absent

Literally: When the cat isn't there, the mice party

Closest English expression: People misbehave when the person in charge is absent

Traditional proverb · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

El salió y nadie hizo nada. el no está, los ratones hacen fiesta.
The teacher left and nobody did anything. When the cat's away, the mice will play.
Source note
98

A regalado no le mires el diente

Don’t criticize something you received for free

Literally: Don't look at the teeth of a gifted horse

Closest English expression: Don't look a gift horse in the mouth

Traditional proverb · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

English has essentially the same expression.

In a sentence

No te quejes del : a regalado no le mires el diente.
Do not complain about the gift: do not look a gift horse in the mouth.
Source note
99

Más en mano que ciento volando

Something certain is better than something potentially better but uncertain

Literally: A bird in the hand is worth more than a hundred flying

Closest English expression: A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush

Traditional proverb · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

el trabajo seguro: más en mano que ciento volando.
I prefer the secure job: a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
Source note
100

De tal palo, tal astilla

Children often resemble their parents in personality or behavior

Literally: From such a stick, such a splinter

Closest English expression: Like father, like son / The apple doesn't fall far from the tree

Traditional proverb · Broadly understood; local frequency varies

In a sentence

Su es tan competitiva como él. De tal palo, tal astilla.
His daughter is just as competitive as he is. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
Source note
101

A quien madruga, Dios le ayuda

Starting early gives you an advantage.

Literally: God helps whoever wakes up early.

Closest English expression: Starting early gives you an advantage.

Traditional proverb · Widely understood; wording has regional variants

In a sentence

Salimos al amanecer y evitamos la cola: a quien madruga, Dios le ayuda.
We left at dawn and avoided the queue: an early start helps.
Source note
102

Más vale que

Doing something late is better than never doing it.

Literally: Better late than never.

Closest English expression: Better late than never. This one translates almost perfectly into English.

Traditional proverb · Widely understood; wording has regional variants

In a sentence

Por te has apuntado. Más vale que .
You finally signed up. Better late than never.
Source note
103

Del dicho al hecho hay mucho trecho

Saying you'll do something is much easier than actually doing it.

Literally: From saying to doing there is a long distance.

Closest English expression: Saying you'll do something is much easier than actually doing it.

Traditional proverb · Widely understood; wording has regional variants

In a sentence

Promete , pero del al hecho hay mucho trecho.
He promises to change, but saying and doing are far apart.
Source note
104

En cerrada no moscas

Sometimes keeping quiet keeps you out of trouble.

Literally: Flies don't enter a closed mouth.

Closest English expression: Sometimes keeping quiet keeps you out of trouble.

Traditional proverb · Widely understood; wording has regional variants

In a sentence

Preferí no nada: en boca cerrada no entran moscas.
I chose not to comment: keeping quiet can keep you out of trouble.
Source note
105

El que mucho abarca, poco aprieta

If you try to do too many things at once, you probably won't do any of them well.

Literally: Whoever embraces too much squeezes little.

Closest English expression: If you try to do too many things at once, you probably won't do any of them well.

Traditional proverb · Widely understood; wording has regional variants

In a sentence

Elige dos ; el que mucho abarca, poco aprieta.
Choose two projects; taking on too much makes it hard to do anything well.
Source note
106

el suena, lleva

Persistent rumors often have some truth behind them.

Literally: When the river makes noise, it carries water.

Closest English expression: Persistent rumors often have some truth behind them.

Traditional proverb · Widely understood; wording has regional variants

In a sentence

Todos hablan de la ; cuando el río suena, agua lleva.
Everyone mentions the sale; there may be something behind the rumours.
Source note
107

que no has de beber, déjala

If something does not concern you, leave it alone.

Literally: Water you aren't going to drink, let it flow.

Closest English expression: If something does not concern you, leave it alone.

Traditional proverb · Widely understood; wording has regional variants

In a sentence

No es asunto nuestro: agua que no has de beber, déjala correr.
It is not our business: leave it alone.
Source note
108

Las apariencias engañan

Do not judge someone or something by outward appearance alone.

Literally: Appearances deceive.

Closest English expression: Appearances are deceiving. Do not judge something solely by what it looks like.

Traditional proverb · Widely understood; wording has regional variants

In a sentence

Parece , pero no funciona. Las apariencias engañan.
It looks new, but it does not work. Appearances deceive.
Source note
109

Más maña que fuerza

Cleverness and technique can accomplish more than brute force.

Literally: Skill is worth more than strength.

Closest English expression: Cleverness and technique can accomplish more than brute force.

Traditional proverb · Widely understood; wording has regional variants

In a sentence

Con una palanca lo movimos: más vale maña que .
We moved it with a lever: skill beats force.
Source note
110

El hábito no hace al

Appearance does not determine someone's true character.

Literally: The habit does not make the monk.

Closest English expression: Appearance does not determine someone's true character.

Traditional proverb · Widely understood; wording has regional variants

In a sentence

Un traje elegante no demuestra honestidad: el hábito no hace al monje.
A smart suit does not prove honesty: appearances do not define character.
Source note

Explore these words: Animals (flashcards) · Time & dates (flashcards) · Shopping (flashcards)

Put these words into context with a story at your level.

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Remember the situation, not just the words

  1. Choose an idiom you have seen in a real conversation or story.
  2. Explain its literal picture in English, then say the Spanish example aloud.
  3. Change the person or tense while keeping the expression intact.
  4. Check the region and register before using a strongly informal phrase with a new acquaintance.

Spanish idioms: frequently asked questions

What are common Spanish idioms?

Costar un ojo de la cara, echar una mano and meter la pata are useful starting points: they describe a high price, offering help and making a mistake.

Are Spanish idioms the same in Spain and Latin America?

Many are widely understood, while others are strongly regional. Read the region label and remember that familiarity with an expression does not mean every speaker uses it.

What is the difference between a refrán and a modismo?

A refrán is usually a complete proverb expressing advice or an observation. A modismo is an idiomatic expression that fits into a sentence.

Can I translate Spanish idioms literally?

A literal translation explains the image but often misses the message. Use the meaning and example to decide what the expression communicates.

Are these idioms polite?

Many are conversational. Some criticise a person or sound strong, including expressions about being cowardly, foolish or in a bad mood; use those with care and context.

Which accent is used for pronunciation?

The recording convention is Spanish from Spain (es-ES). Regional expressions retain their region labels; the recording accent does not make them expressions from Spain.

How many idioms should I learn at once?

Start with three to five relevant expressions. Read and retell their examples, then look for them in stories before adding more.

Are the proverbs quotations by famous authors?

No. The proverb section presents traditional sayings without inventing an author. The separate quotes guide gives sourced lines by named Spanish-language writers.

Make these words part of your day

Explore Spanish stories, listen along, and save vocabulary as you go.

Find a story at your level

Sources and verification

English translations and examples were written for this guide. Source notes distinguish documented expressions, original practice sentences, and literary quotations. Literary excerpts retain the language of their original period.

Source notes for all 110 entries
  1. Costar un ojo de la cara: DLE, headword “ojo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-ojo]
  2. Estar en las nubes: DLE, headword “nube”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-nube]
  3. Echar una mano: DLE, headword “mano”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-mano]
  4. Dar en el clavo: DLE, headword “clavo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-clavo]
  5. Meter la pata: DLE, headword “pata”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pata]
  6. Estar como pez en el agua: DLE, headword “pez”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pez]
  7. Tomar el pelo: DLE, headword “pelo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pelo]
  8. Ponerse las pilas: DLE, headword “pila”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pila]
  9. No tener pelos en la lengua: DLE, headword “pelo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pelo]
  10. Hablar por los codos: DLE, headword “codo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-codo]
  11. Quedarse de piedra: DLE, headword “piedra”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-piedra]
  12. Tirar la toalla: DLE, headword “toalla”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-toalla]
  13. Ser pan comido: DLE, headword “pan”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pan]
  14. Estar hasta las narices: DLE, headword “nariz”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-nariz]
  15. Irse por las ramas: DLE, headword “rama”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-rama]
  16. Hacer la vista gorda: DLE, headword “vista”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-vista]
  17. Estar hecho polvo: DLE, headword “polvo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-polvo]
  18. Dormir a pierna suelta: DLE, headword “pierna”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pierna]
  19. Buscar una aguja en un pajar: DLE, headword “aguja”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-aguja]
  20. Ahogarse en un vaso de agua: DLE, headword “ahogar”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-ahogar]
  21. Tener un corazón de oro: DLE, headword “corazón”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-corazón]
  22. No tener dos dedos de frente: DLE, headword “frente”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-frente]
  23. Tener la mosca detrás de la oreja: DLE, headword “mosca”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-mosca]
  24. Estar con el agua al cuello: DLE, headword “agua”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-agua]
  25. Poner el dedo en la llaga: DLE, headword “llaga”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-llaga]
  26. Tener algo en la punta de la lengua: DLE, headword “lengua”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-lengua]
  27. Romperse la cabeza: DLE, headword “cabeza”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-cabeza]
  28. Tener mano izquierda: DLE, headword “mano”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-mano]
  29. No pegar ojo: DLE, headword “ojo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-ojo]
  30. Lavarse las manos: DLE, headword “mano”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-mano]
  31. Estar como un flan: DLE, headword “flan”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-flan]
  32. Importar un pepino: DLE, headword “pepino”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pepino]
  33. Ser del año de la pera: DLE, headword “pera”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pera]
  34. Dar calabazas: DLE, headword “calabaza”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-calabaza]
  35. Ponerse como un tomate: DLE, headword “tomate”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-tomate]
  36. Estar de mala leche: DLE, headword “leche”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-leche]
  37. Tener mala uva: DLE, headword “uva”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-uva]
  38. Cortar el bacalao: DLE, headword “bacalao”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-bacalao]
  39. No estar el horno para bollos: DLE, headword “horno”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-horno]
  40. Poner toda la carne en el asador: DLE, headword “carne”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-carne]
  41. Estar como una cabra: DLE, headword “cabra”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-cabra]
  42. Matar dos pájaros de un tiro: DLE, headword “pájaro”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pájaro]
  43. Ser la oveja negra: DLE, headword “oveja”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-oveja]
  44. Estar hecho un toro: DLE, headword “toro”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-toro]
  45. Ser un gallina: DLE, headword “gallina”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-gallina]
  46. Llevarse como el perro y el gato: DLE, headword “perro”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-perro]
  47. Lágrimas de cocodrilo: DLE, headword “cocodrilo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-cocodrilo]
  48. Hacer buenas migas: DLE, headword “miga”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-miga]
  49. Romper el hielo: DLE, headword “hielo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-hielo]
  50. Caer bien: DLE, headword “caer”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. In the example, your sister is the Spanish subject: she makes a good impression on me, so English says I like your sister. [dle-caer]
  51. Dar la lata: DLE, headword “lata”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-lata]
  52. Echar leña al fuego: DLE, headword “leña”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-leña]
  53. Hacer la pelota: DLE, headword “pelota”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pelota]
  54. Poner a alguien verde: DLE, headword “verde”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-verde]
  55. Dejar plantado a alguien: DLE, headword “plantado”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-plantado]
  56. Dar la cara: DLE, headword “cara”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-cara]
  57. Dar la espalda: DLE, headword “espalda”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-espalda]
  58. Estar sin blanca: DLE, headword “blanca”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-blanca]
  59. Tirar la casa por la ventana: DLE, headword “casa”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-casa]
  60. Hacer el agosto: DLE, headword “agosto”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-agosto]
  61. Apretarse el cinturón: DLE, headword “cinturón”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-cinturón]
  62. Ganarse el pan: DLE, headword “pan”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pan]
  63. No dar palo al agua: DLE, headword “palo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-palo]
  64. Ponerse manos a la obra: DLE, headword “mano”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-mano]
  65. Arrimar el hombro: DLE, headword “hombro”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-hombro]
  66. Sacar algo adelante: DLE, headword “adelante”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-adelante]
  67. Trabajar como un burro: DLE, headword “burro”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-burro]
  68. Salir del paso: DLE, headword “paso”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-paso]
  69. Andar con pies de plomo: DLE, headword “pie”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-pie]
  70. Tocar fondo: DLE, headword “fondo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-fondo]
  71. Echar por la borda: DLE, headword “borda”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-borda]
  72. Dar la vuelta a la tortilla: DLE, headword “tortilla”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-tortilla]
  73. Estar entre la espada y la pared: DLE, headword “espada”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-espada]
  74. Coger el toro por los cuernos: DLE, headword “toro”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-toro]
  75. Estar contra las cuerdas: DLE, headword “cuerda”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-cuerda]
  76. Salir el tiro por la culata: DLE, headword “tiro”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-tiro]
  77. Caer en saco roto: DLE, headword “saco”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-saco]
  78. Comerse el coco: DLE, headword “coco”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-coco]
  79. Quedarse en blanco: DLE, headword “blanco”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-blanco]
  80. Perder los estribos: DLE, headword “estribo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-estribo]
  81. Estar que echa humo: DLE, headword “humo”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-humo]
  82. Tener mariposas en el estómago: Pérez Fuertes, Explorando las emociones a través del cuerpo, p. 141, explicitly lists this Spanish phraseological unit. The English meaning and example are independently written. [cvc-somatic-emotions]
  83. Ponerse de los nervios: DLE, headword “nervio”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-nervio]
  84. Verlo todo negro: DLE, headword “negro”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-negro]
  85. Estar verde: DLE, headword “verde”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-verde]
  86. No caber en sí de alegría: DLE, headword “caber”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-caber]
  87. Quedarse con la boca abierta: DLE, headword “boca”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-boca]
  88. Flipar en colores: DLE, headword “flipar”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-flipar]
  89. Estar al loro: DLE, headword “loro”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-loro]
  90. Ser la leche: DLE, headword “leche”, corresponding figurative sense or locution; regional usages are labeled. [dle-leche]
  91. Caer el veinte: ASALE Diccionario de americanismos, caer: the locution caer el veinte. [asale-caer]
  92. Echar carrilla: ASALE Diccionario de americanismos, echar: the locution echar carrilla. The teasing may be persistent or unwelcome; use it carefully. [asale-echar]
  93. Estar cañón: ASALE Diccionario de americanismos, estar: the locution estar cañón. [asale-estar]
  94. Hazme el paro: ASALE Diccionario de americanismos, hacer: the locution hacer el paro. [asale-hacer]
  95. Hacerse bolas: ASALE Diccionario de americanismos, hacer: the locution hacerse bolas. [asale-hacer]
  96. Andar como bola sin manija: ASALE Diccionario de americanismos, bola: the locution como bola sin manija. [asale-bola]
  97. Cuando el gato no está, los ratones hacen fiesta: CVC lists this exact hacen fiesta wording as a Colombian oral variant. The meaning and independently written example are explained by Inklingo. [cvc-58398]
  98. A caballo regalado no le mires el diente: The wording is the CVC head proverb, with optional punctuation. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-58047]
  99. Más vale pájaro en mano que ciento volando: The wording is the CVC head proverb. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-59052]
  100. De tal palo, tal astilla: The wording is the CVC head proverb. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-58480]
  101. A quien madruga, Dios le ayuda: The wording is the CVC head proverb. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-58122]
  102. Más vale tarde que nunca: The wording is the CVC head proverb. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-59073]
  103. Del dicho al hecho hay mucho trecho: CVC lists this exact hay mucho trecho wording among its variants. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-58491]
  104. En boca cerrada no entran moscas: The wording is the CVC head proverb, with optional punctuation. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-58703]
  105. El que mucho abarca, poco aprieta: CVC explains the proverb under Quien mucho abarca; its scholarly El mínimo paremiológico español, item 275, explicitly attests the El que variant used here. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-59420] [cvc-minimo-275]
  106. Cuando el río suena, agua lleva: The wording is the CVC head proverb. It expresses a traditional inference about rumors, not a guarantee that every rumor is true. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-58400]
  107. Agua que no has de beber, déjala correr: The wording is the CVC head proverb. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-58152]
  108. Las apariencias engañan: The wording is the CVC head proverb. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-58925]
  109. Más vale maña que fuerza: The wording is the CVC head proverb. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-59049]
  110. El hábito no hace al monje: The wording is the CVC head proverb. English translation and example are written by Inklingo. [cvc-58607]