Inklingo

How to Say "whip" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word forwhipis látigouse 'látigo' for a general-purpose whip made of leather or cord, often used for animal control or as a tool.

English → Spanish

látigo

nounB1general
Use 'látigo' for a general-purpose whip made of leather or cord, often used for animal control or as a tool.

Examples

El domador usaba un látigo para dirigir a los leones.

The tamer used a whip to direct the lions.

cuarta

KWAR-tahˈkwaɾta

nounB2general
Use 'cuarta' specifically for a riding crop or lash, often shorter and used for equestrian purposes.
A simple, curved riding crop with a wooden handle and a leather lash end, placed on a neutral background.

Examples

El domador llevaba una cuarta en la mano.

The tamer carried a whip in his hand.

Látigo vs. Cuarta

Learners often confuse 'látigo' and 'cuarta'. Remember that 'látigo' is the more general term for a whip, while 'cuarta' is more specific to a riding crop or lash.

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