How to Say "to grease" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “to grease” is “untar” — A2 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
Me gusta untar mantequilla en el pan tostado.
I like to spread butter on the toast.
Tienes que untar el molde con aceite antes de hornear.
You have to grease the mold with oil before baking.
No te olvides de untarte crema solar en la espalda.
Don't forget to put sunscreen on your back.
Using 'en' vs 'con'
Use 'en' for the surface (bread, skin) and 'con' for the substance (butter, cream). For example: 'Untar mantequilla en el pan' or 'Untar el pan con mantequilla'.
Making it personal
When applying something to your own body, use the reflexive form 'untarse'. Example: 'Me unto crema' (I put cream on myself).
Using 'untar' for jam
Mistake: “Technically you can, but 'untar' is usually for thick, creamy things.”
Correction: Use 'untar' for butter or cream, and 'poner' or 'extender' for things like jam or jelly if you want to sound more natural.
Related Translations
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.