garra (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun (feminine)

Phonetic Transcription

/gara/

Translation Options into English

1. Claw
2. Grip
3. Talon

Meaning and Usage

The word "garra" primarily means "claw," referring to the sharp, curved appendage typically found on the feet of animals such as birds, felines, and reptiles. It can also refer to the grip or hold one has on an object or concept. "Garra" can denote strength or tenacity, particularly in colloquial contexts where it describes determination or fierce determination in achieving goals.

• Frequency of Use: "Garra" is a commonly used term in both oral and written Spanish contexts, particularly in casual conversations and literature.
• Context: It often appears in discussions about animals, sports, and personal determination.

Example Sentences

1. La leona mostró sus garras mientras cazaba a su presa.
   (The lioness showed her claws while hunting her prey.)

2. Necesitamos tener garra para enfrentar los desafíos que se nos presentan.
   (We need to have grit to face the challenges that come our way.)

3. Con sus garras afiladas, el águila atrapó al pez del agua.
   (With its sharp claws, the eagle caught the fish from the water.)

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "garra" can be part of various idiomatic expressions, typically relating to determination, strength, or aggression.

1. Tener garra - To have grit or determination.

2. Ejemplo: El equipo tuvo garra para ganar el campeonato.
   (The team had the grit to win the championship.)

3. Sacar las garras - To show one’s claws; to show aggression or defensive behavior.

4. Ejemplo: Cuando la situación se volvió complicada, ella sacó las garras.
   (When the situation became complicated, she showed her claws.)

5. Luchar con garra - To fight fiercely or tenaciously.

6. Ejemplo: A pesar de las adversidades, lucharon con garra por sus derechos.
   (Despite the adversities, they fought fiercely for their rights.)

7. Poner las garras sobre algo - To get one's hands on something or to seize something.

8. Ejemplo: No puedo esperar a poner mis garras sobre el nuevo teléfono.
   (I can't wait to get my hands on the new phone.)

Etymology

The word "garra" comes from the Latin "garrīca," which also refers to a claw or talon, indicating its longstanding historical use throughout the evolution of the Spanish language.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms:
• "Talon"
• "Uña" (in certain contexts)

• "Agarre" (when referring to grip)

• Antonyms:

• "Suavidad" (softness)
• "Gentileza" (gentleness)

In summary, "garra" is a versatile noun in Spanish with various meanings and usages, particularly in contexts that emphasize strength and determination.