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How to Say "crowbar" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “crowbar” is “barra” — use 'barra' when referring to a metal bar used for prying, especially in contexts where the object is simply a bar without a strong emphasis on its lever function..

English → Spanish

barra

BAH-rrah (Roll the 'rr' sound strongly)/ˈba.rra/

nounA2general
Use 'barra' when referring to a metal bar used for prying, especially in contexts where the object is simply a bar without a strong emphasis on its lever function.
A close-up view of a single, straight, polished metal rod.

Examples

El ladrón usó una barra de hierro para abrir la caja fuerte.

The thief used an iron bar to open the safe.

Compramos una barra de pan integral.

We bought a loaf of whole wheat bread. (A long, stick-like loaf)

Metaphorical Extension

The word 'barra' is used for anything long, straight, and solid, including a loaf of bread ('barra de pan') or a stick of makeup ('barra de labios').

palanca

/pah-LAHN-kah//paˈlaŋka/

nounA2general
Choose 'palanca' when the primary function of the tool is to act as a lever for moving or lifting heavy objects.
A wooden plank resting on a small rock being used to lift a large heavy boulder.

Examples

Necesitamos una palanca para mover esta piedra tan pesada.

We need a lever to move this very heavy stone.

Tira de la palanca para activar la máquina.

Pull the lever to activate the machine.

Gender Check

Even though it ends in 'a', this word follows the standard rule and is feminine: 'la palanca'.

Barra vs. Palanca

Learners often confuse 'barra' and 'palanca' because both can be used for prying. Remember that 'palanca' specifically highlights the lever action, while 'barra' is a more general term for a bar or rod, which can include crowbars.

Related Translations

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