Inklingo

How to Say "you shoot" in Spanish

English → Spanish

tiras

TEE-rahs/ˈtiɾas/

verbA1informal
Use this word when referring to the act of firing a weapon or taking a photograph, though it's less common for firing weapons.
A colorful illustration showing a young person standing outdoors, mid-action, throwing a bright red ball high into the air.

Examples

Tiras muchas fotos con tu teléfono nuevo.

You take a lot of photos with your new phone.

¿Por qué tiras la basura aquí? Hay un bote.

Why are you throwing the trash here? There's a can.

Si tiras muy fuerte de la cuerda, se va a romper.

If you pull the rope too hard, it's going to break.

Tú tiras el dinero en cosas inútiles.

You waste money on useless things.

Using 'Tú' vs. 'Usted'

'Tiras' is only used when you are speaking directly to one person in an informal way (like a friend or child). For formal situations, use 'Usted tira'.

dispares

/dees-PAH-rehs//disˈpaɾes/

verbB1
This form is typically used in subjunctive contexts, expressing a wish, doubt, or negative command, often related to firing a weapon.
A simple wooden bow with an arrow being released towards a round target.

Examples

No quiero que dispares a nadie.

I don't want you to shoot anyone.

No quiero que dispares esa pistola.

I don't want you to shoot that gun.

Es mejor que no dispares la cámara con este sol.

It's better if you don't fire the camera (take the photo) in this sunlight.

The 'Vowel Swap' Rule

For -ar verbs like 'disparar', the normal 'a' in 'disparas' swaps to an 'e' ('dispares') when you are telling someone NOT to do something or when you are expressing a wish.

Weapon vs. Other 'Shooting'

Learners often confuse 'tiras' and 'dispares' when talking about shooting. Remember that 'tiras' can be used for photos or throwing things, while 'dispares' is more common for a direct command or wish about firing a gun.

Related Translations

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