amusgar las orejas (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation
Part of speech
Verb phrase
Phonetic transcription
/a.musˈɣaɾ las oˈɾexas/
Translation options into English
Literal translation: "to prick up one's ears"
Interpretative translation: "to pay close attention"
Meaning
The phrase "amusgar las orejas" means to listen carefully, to pay close attention to what is being said or happening. It is often used to express the idea of someone being alert or attentive.
This phrase is more commonly used in oral speech, particularly in informal contexts.
Examples
Spanish: Cuando escuchó su nombre en la conversación, amusgó las orejas para oír mejor.
English: When she heard her name in the conversation, she pricked up her ears to listen better.
Spanish: El profesor amusgó las orejas cuando mencionaron el examen sorpresa.
English: The teacher paid close attention when the surprise test was mentioned.
Idiomatic Expressions
Spanish Idiomatic Expression: "Estar al quite"
Example: Estoy al quite para escuchar si mencionan mi nombre.
Translation: I am on the lookout to hear if they mention my name.
Spanish Idiomatic Expression: "Poner oreja"
Example: Vas a tener que poner oreja si quieres enterarte de todo.
Translation: You're going to have to pay close attention if you want to find out everything.
Spanish Idiomatic Expression: "Prestar oídos"
Example: Si prestas oídos, podrás escuchar lo que realmente piensa.
Translation: If you lend an ear, you will be able to hear what he really thinks.
Etymology
The word "amusgar" comes from the combination of the prefix "a-" (indicating direction or intention) and the verb "musgar" (to prick up). Together, they create the meaning of "to prick up" or "to raise."
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms: Prestar atención, estar atento, escuchar con interés