estar en ascuas (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

"Estar en ascuas" is an idiomatic expression in Spanish. The phrase "estar en" functions as a verb phrase indicating a state of being, while "ascuas" is a noun in plural form.

Phonetic Transcription

/esˈtaɾ en ˈaskwas/

Translation Options into English

• To be in suspense
• To be on edge
• To be in a state of uncertainty

Meaning and Usage

"Estar en ascuas" means to be in a state of anxiety, uncertainty, or anticipation about something, often waiting for a piece of important news or decision. It has a relatively frequent use in both oral and written contexts, though it might be more commonly heard in conversation, especially when discussing feelings of suspense or anxious waiting.

Example Sentences

1. Después de la entrevista, estaba en ascuas esperando la respuesta del trabajo.

2. After the interview, I was on edge waiting for the job response.

3. La noticia del banco dejó a todos en ascuas durante semanas.

4. The news from the bank left everyone in suspense for weeks.

Idiomatic Expressions Involving "Ascua"

The word "ascua" itself is often involved in other expressions, notably in metaphorical contexts.

1. "Sacar a alguien de las ascuas"
2. Esta noticia va a sacar a los accionistas de las ascuas.

3. This news is going to relieve the shareholders from uncertainty.

4. "Estar en ascuas"

5. Ella ha estado en ascuas esperando que su pareja le proponga matrimonio.

6. She has been on edge waiting for her partner to propose marriage.

7. "Poner a alguien en ascuas"

8. El director pone a todos en ascuas con sus anuncios misteriosos.

9. The director puts everyone in suspense with his mysterious announcements.

10. "No dejar a nadie en ascuas"

11. Es mejor no dejar a nadie en ascuas sobre lo que va a pasar en la reunión.
12. It's better not to leave anyone in suspense about what’s going to happen in the meeting.

Etymology

The expression "estar en ascuas" derives from the Spanish word "ascua," which originally refers to a glowing ember or coal (often from a fire). The metaphor relates to the idea of being in a state of unresolved tension or waiting, much like the uncertain nature of a glowing ember which can either extinguish or burst into flames.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Estar intranquilo (to be uneasy) - Estar inquieto (to be restless)

Antonyms: - Estar tranquilo (to be calm) - Estar seguro (to be sure)