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How to Say "to pluck" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pulsar

/pool-SAHR//pulˈsaɾ/

verbC1musical strings
Use 'pulsar' when referring to the precise action of pressing or touching individual musical strings, often with a finger, to produce a note, common with instruments like guitars or pianos.
A hand plucking the nylon strings of a classical guitar.

Examples

Comenzó a pulsar las cuerdas de la guitarra con suavidad.

He began to pluck the guitar strings gently.

rasgar

/ras-GAR//rasˈɣaɾ/

verbB2stringed instruments
Use 'rasgar' to describe a more sweeping or strumming motion across multiple strings of an instrument, creating a fuller sound, typical for guitars or harps.
A hand sweeping across the strings of an acoustic guitar in a strumming motion.

Examples

El músico empezó a rasgar las cuerdas de su guitarra.

The musician began to strum the strings of his guitar.

Me encanta cómo rasgas el violín.

I love how you pluck the violin.

Poetic Use

Using 'rasgar' for music is often more poetic or dramatic than using 'tocar' (to play). It emphasizes the physical action across the strings.

Pulsar vs. Rasgar

Learners often confuse 'pulsar' and 'rasgar' because both relate to playing string instruments. Remember that 'pulsar' is for individual string presses, while 'rasgar' implies a broader strumming motion across multiple strings.

Related Translations

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