Part of Speech

The word "lavar" is a verb.

Phonetic Transcription

The phonetic transcription of "lavar" using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /laˈβaɾ/.

Translation Options into English

The most common translations for "lavar" into English are: - to wash - to clean - to rinse

Meaning and Usage

"Lavar" refers to the action of cleaning something, usually involving the removal of dirt or impurities, typically using water and sometimes soap. It's frequently used in various contexts, including washing hands, clothes, dishes, or other objects.

• Frequency of Use: This verb is commonly used in both oral and written contexts. However, it is more frequently used in oral speech, as it relates to everyday activities.

Example Sentences

1. Vamos a lavar los platos después de la cena.
2. We are going to wash the dishes after dinner.
3. Es importante lavar las manos antes de comer.
4. It is important to wash your hands before eating.
5. Ella decidió lavar su coche el fin de semana.
6. She decided to wash her car over the weekend.

Idiomatic Expressions

The verb "lavar" is part of several idiomatic expressions in Spanish, emphasizing its importance in everyday language.

1. Lavar los trapos sucios en casa.

2. To wash dirty rags at home. (Meaning: To air one's dirty laundry in private.)

3. Lavar las manos de algo.

4. To wash one's hands of something. (Meaning: To disassociate oneself from something.)

5. No hay que lavar la ropa sucia en público.

6. You shouldn't wash dirty laundry in public. (Meaning: Don't discuss private or sensitive matters publicly.)

7. Si lo haces, te va a lavar el cerebro.

8. If you do it, it will brainwash you. (Meaning: To manipulate someone’s beliefs or thoughts.)

9. Lavar la cara a alguien.

10. To wash someone's face. (Meaning: To confront someone with the truth.)

Etymology

The word "lavar" comes from the Latin verb "lavare," which means "to wash." This Latin origin is the root for similar terms in other Romance languages.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - limpiar (to clean) - enjuagar (to rinse) - asear (to tidy up)

Antonyms: - ensuciar (to dirty) - manchar (to stain) - descuidar (to neglect)

The information provided gives a comprehensive overview of the verb "lavar," illustrating its uses, meanings, idiomatic expressions, and relevant grammatical details.