Inklingo

How to Say "barrage" in Spanish

English → Spanish

bombardeo

bom-bar-DEH-ohbombarˈdeo

nounB2figurative
Use 'bombardeo' for a figurative barrage of abstract things like questions, emails, or criticism, implying an overwhelming and relentless attack.
A person standing as many colorful envelopes and speech bubbles rain down around them.

Examples

Sufro un bombardeo de correos todos los lunes.

I suffer a barrage of emails every Monday.

El bombardeo publicitario en las redes sociales es increíble.

The advertising onslaught on social media is incredible.

Los periodistas iniciaron un bombardeo de preguntas al ministro.

The journalists started a barrage of questions at the minister.

Using 'de'

Just like in English, use the word 'de' (of) after 'bombardeo' to specify what is overwhelming you (e.g., bombardeo de ideas).

Intensity Level

lluvia

YOO-vee-ahˈʎu.βja

nounB1figurative
Use 'lluvia' to describe a shower or a large quantity of something falling, often used for positive things like applause, flowers, or even questions when seen as a downpour.
A simplified person standing with arms outstretched, being showered by a dense cascade of small, identical golden coins falling from above, symbolizing abundance.

Examples

La actriz recibió una lluvia de flores y aplausos al final de la obra.

The actress received a shower of flowers and applause at the end of the play.

El político enfrentó una lluvia de críticas por su nueva propuesta.

The politician faced a torrent of criticism for his new proposal.

Figurative Use

When 'lluvia' is used figuratively, it means a huge, overwhelming amount of something, usually negative (criticism) or positive (gifts, applause).

Bombardeo vs. Lluvia

Learners often confuse 'bombardeo' and 'lluvia' for figurative barrages. Remember that 'bombardeo' implies an aggressive, overwhelming attack, while 'lluvia' suggests a heavy but less aggressive shower or downpour.

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