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How to Say "sweep" in Spanish

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redada

reh-DAH-dahreˈdaða

nounB1security or cleaning operation
Use 'redada' when referring to a large-scale police raid or a thorough cleaning operation.
A police car with flashing blue and red lights parked in front of a building entrance at night.

Examples

La policía hizo una redada en el almacén anoche.

The police carried out a raid on the warehouse last night.

Hubo una redada masiva contra el tráfico de drogas.

There was a massive raid against drug trafficking.

Muchos sospechosos escaparon antes de la redada.

Many suspects escaped before the roundup.

Using the right verb

Even though 'redada' is the action, you need a verb to go with it. Usually, we use 'hacer' (to do/make) or 'llevar a cabo' (to carry out) to say 'to conduct a raid'.

Feminine Noun

This word is feminine, so you must always use 'la', 'una', or feminine adjectives like 'una redada inesperada' (an unexpected raid).

Don't say 'raid'

Mistake: “La policía hizo un raid.”

Correction: La policía hizo una redada.

vuelo

bwéh-lohˈbwelɔ

nounB2figurative: wide range or extent
Use 'vuelo' in a figurative sense to describe a wide range, extent, or a sweeping view, similar to 'flight' in English.
A small blue bird mid-flight, gliding through the air with its wings spread open.

Examples

El águila tomó el vuelo y se perdió en el cielo azul.

The eagle took flight and disappeared into the blue sky.

El ensayo carecía de vuelo; era demasiado simple.

The essay lacked flair/originality; it was too simple.

Los científicos necesitan dar vuelo a su imaginación para resolver este problema.

Scientists need to let their imagination soar (take flight) to solve this problem.

Figurative Use

In its figurative sense, 'vuelo' is often paired with abstract nouns like 'imaginación' or 'creatividad' to mean 'scope' or 'freedom'.

Confusing Raids with Flight

Learners often confuse 'redada' (raid/cleaning) with 'vuelo' (flight/range). Remember that 'redada' implies a forceful action or thorough cleanup, while 'vuelo' refers to movement through the air or a broad scope.

Related Translations

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