echar una mano (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Phrase

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈet͡ʃaɾ ˈuna ˈmano/

Translation Options into English

• To lend a hand
• To help out

Meaning and Usage

The phrase "echar una mano" is an idiomatic expression in Spanish that translates to "to lend a hand" or "to help out." It is commonly used in both spoken and written contexts, indicating a request for assistance or offering help to someone in need. It is frequently used in informal situations among friends, family, or colleagues, making it a popular choice in daily conversations.

Example Sentences

1. Voy a echar una mano a mi hermano con su mudanza.

2. I'm going to lend a hand to my brother with his move.

3. ¿Puedes echarme una mano con este proyecto?

4. Can you help me out with this project?

Idiomatic Expressions

"Echar una mano" is uncommonly found in a variety of idiomatic expressions. Here are a few:

1. Siempre estoy dispuesto a echar una mano.

2. I am always willing to lend a hand.

3. Cuando necesitas ayuda, puedes contar con tus amigos para echar una mano.

4. When you need help, you can count on your friends to lend a hand.

5. En esta comunidad, todos echamos una mano cuando alguien lo necesita.

6. In this community, we all lend a hand when someone needs it.

7. Ella nunca duda en echar una mano a los más necesitados.

8. She never hesitates to lend a hand to those in need.

9. Los vecinos se reunieron para echar una mano con las reparaciones del centro comunitario.

10. The neighbors gathered to lend a hand with the repairs of the community center.

Etymology

The phrase "echar una mano" literally translates to "to throw a hand," deriving from the verb "echar," meaning "to throw" or "to put," combined with "mano," meaning "hand." This figurative expression conveys the act of offering one's hand as a gesture of assistance.

Synonyms

• Ayudar (to help)
• Asistir (to assist)
• Colaborar (to collaborate)

Antonyms

• Ignorar (to ignore)
• Desatender (to neglect)
• Rechazar (to decline/refuse)

In summary, "echar una mano" is a versatile and widely-used phrase in Spanish, particularly in informal settings, denoting a willingness to assist or help others. Its frequent appearance in idiomatic expressions illustrates its significance in Spanish-speaking cultures.