Inklingo

How to Say "anchor" in Spanish

The Spanish word foranchoris anclaA2 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.

English → SpanishA2

ancla

nounA2
a heavy object used to keep a ship in place
A heavy metal anchor resting on the sandy ocean floor with a thick rope attached.

Examples

El marinero soltó el ancla para detener el barco.

The sailor dropped the anchor to stop the boat.

El ancla está oxidada por el agua del mar.

The anchor is rusty because of the sea water.

Necesitamos un ancla más pesada para esta corriente tan fuerte.

We need a heavier anchor for such a strong current.

The 'El' vs 'La' Rule

Even though this is a feminine word, we use 'el' in the singular (el ancla) because it starts with a stressed 'a' sound. This prevents the two 'a' sounds from bumping into each other.

Plural Changes Back

When you make it plural, the 'the' changes back to the normal feminine form: 'las anclas'.

Avoid 'La Ancla'

Mistake:La ancla es grande.

Correction: El ancla es grande. Use 'el' for singular words starting with a stressed 'a' to make them easier to say.

Other Meanings ofancla

anclacan also mean:

  • a person or thing that provides stability and support(B2)

See all meanings in the full dictionary entry →

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