The term tenazas refers primarily to a tool or instrument used for gripping, holding or manipulating objects, especially hot or difficult-to-handle items. Its usage can be found in various contexts including construction, metallurgy, and cooking. The word tends to be more commonly used in both spoken and written forms, although it may frequently appear in instructional texts related to crafts or mechanics.
Tongs are essential for working with hot metals.
Usé las tenazas para sacar la pasta del agua hirviendo.
I used the tongs to take the pasta out of the boiling water.
Cuando reparé el coche, necesitaba las tenazas para soltar las tuercas.
While tenazas is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions the same way some other words are, I will provide a few expressions related to gripping, holding, or manipulating which can metaphorically lead to the idea of tenazas:
Used to describe a situation where someone is in a difficult or constrained position.
"Sujetar con tenazas."
Often used to describe a strong hold on an opinion or decision.
"Caer en las tenazas de la crítica."
The word tenazas originates from the Latin term tenaculum, which means to grasp or hold tightly. It evolved through the Old Spanish term before taking on its current form in modern Spanish.
In summary, tenazas is a versatile term with applications across different fields and contexts, primarily in handling and gripping tools.