Inklingo

How to Say "bolt" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word forboltis misiluse 'misil' when referring to something that moves extremely quickly, often like a projectile or a powerful shot in sports..

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misil

/mee-SEEL//miˈsil/

nounC1general
Use 'misil' when referring to something that moves extremely quickly, often like a projectile or a powerful shot in sports.
A soccer ball moving so fast it has motion lines behind it, heading straight into the corner of a goal net.

Examples

El delantero marcó un gol con un misil desde fuera del área.

The forward scored a goal with a rocket from outside the box.

Ese coche pasó por la calle como un misil.

That car flew down the street like a bolt of lightning.

seguro

/seh-GOO-roh//seˈɣu.ɾo/

nounB2general
Use 'seguro' to refer to the locking mechanism on a door or window.
A close-up of a metal bolt latch on a wooden door, shown in the locked position.

Examples

No olvides poner el seguro en la puerta antes de dormir.

Don't forget to put the lock on the door before sleeping.

El rifle tiene un seguro para evitar disparos accidentales.

The rifle has a safety lock to prevent accidental shots.

Rocket vs. Lock

Learners often confuse 'misil' (rocket/projectile) with 'seguro' (door lock). Remember that 'misil' implies rapid movement, while 'seguro' is a static security device. Never use 'misil' for a door lock.

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