"en un soplo" is a prepositional phrase in Spanish.
/ɛn un ˈsoplo/
The phrase "en un soplo" literally translates to "in a puff" or "in a breath." It conveys the idea of something happening very quickly or suddenly, often implying that it can happen without much effort or that it is fleeting. This phrase can be applied in various contexts, including describing events, life moments, or even tasks that are completed swiftly.
"En un soplo" is used both in oral and written speech, albeit frequency might be slightly higher in informal contexts.
La tarea se resolvió en un soplo.
(The task was solved in a puff.)
La belleza del paisaje se desvaneció en un soplo.
(The beauty of the landscape faded in a breath.)
Ella logró el objetivo en un soplo, sin esfuerzo.
(She achieved her goal in a sigh, effortlessly.)
While "en un soplo" itself is an idiomatic expression, it is often associated with the concept of something being transient or momentary. Here are some idiomatic expressions in Spanish that reflect a similar sentiment:
Pasar en un soplo.
(To go by in a puff.)
Translation: Time passed in a puff.
Vivir en un soplo.
(To live in a breath.)
Translation: To live fleetingly.
Caer en un soplo.
(To fall in a puff.)
Translation: To fall instantly.
Desaparecer en un soplo.
(To disappear in a puff.)
Translation: To disappear suddenly.
Cambiar en un soplo.
(To change in a breath.)
Translation: To change in an instant.
The phrase "en un soplo" derives from the Spanish word "soplo," which comes from the verb "soplar," meaning "to blow." The term suggests a brief and light action, encapsulating the essence of brevity and transient moments.
Synonyms: - En un instante (in an instant) - En un abrir y cerrar de ojos (in the blink of an eye)
Antonyms: - Poco a poco (little by little) - Lento (slow)