The verb "soltarse" is a reflexive verb in Spanish that generally means to release oneself from constraints, to let oneself go, or to loosen up. It can be used in various contexts, both literally and figuratively.
In everyday language, "soltarse" is often used in informal settings; it is more common in oral speech rather than formal written contexts. You might hear it in conversations that involve dancing, socializing, or expressing oneself freely.
Después de un largo día de trabajo, decidí soltarme y salir a bailar.
After a long day at work, I decided to let loose and go dancing.
No seas tan serio, ¡suéltate un poco!
Don't be so serious, let yourself go a little!
Cuando se suelta, es muy divertido compartir con él.
When he lets go, it's very fun to hang out with him.
"Soltarse" is often featured in idiomatic expressions in Spanish that convey the idea of letting go or becoming more relaxed. Here are a few examples:
Example: Hoy es sábado, así que me voy a soltar la melena y disfrutar de la fiesta.
Today is Saturday, so I'm going to let my hair down and enjoy the party.
Soltar el lastre.
To let go of baggage.
Example: Es hora de soltar el lastre emocional y seguir adelante con mi vida.
It's time to let go of emotional baggage and move on with my life.
Soltar la lengua.
To spill the beans or to talk freely.
Example: No te preocupes, puedo confiar en ti, así que voy a soltar la lengua acerca del secreto.
Don't worry, I can trust you, so I'm going to spill the beans about the secret.
Soltarse a reír.
To burst out laughing.
The word "soltar" comes from the Latin "solutare", which is derived from "solutus", the past participle of "solvere", meaning "to loosen or free". The reflexive form "soltarse" emphasizes the action being performed by the subject upon themselves.