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

Part of Speech

• Sustantivo (Noun)

Phonetic Transcription

• /θaɾˈpaθo/ (in Spain) or /zaɾˈpɑθo/ (in Latin America)

Translation Options into English

• Swipe
• Slash
• Claw (particularly in the context of animals)

Meaning and Usage

The word zarpazo refers to a sudden, forceful blow or swipe made with the claws of an animal, commonly used in reference to predatory actions. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a sharp, aggressive action or criticism in various contexts. In terms of language use, zarpazo tends to be more prevalent in written contexts, particularly in literary works, articles, or conversations where a vivid image of action is required.

Example Sentences

1. El tigre dio un zarpazo a su presa antes de devorarla.

2. The tiger gave a swipe at its prey before devouring it.

3. Su comentario fue como un zarpazo, sorprendiéndome por la dureza de sus palabras.

4. His comment was like a slash, surprising me with the harshness of his words.

5. Cuando el gato se sintió amenazado, lanzó un zarpazo hacia el perro.

6. When the cat felt threatened, it launched a swipe at the dog.

Idiomatic Expressions

Zarpazo is sometimes used in various idiomatic expressions to convey a sense of aggression or a sudden action. Here are some examples:

1. Dar un zarpazo:

2. No puedes dar un zarpazo en la primera reunión; es mejor ser cauteloso.

   • You can't make a swipe in the first meeting; it's better to be cautious.

3. Zarpazo de la vida:

4. El zarpazo de la vida me enseñó que siempre hay que estar preparado para lo inesperado.

   • The swipe of life taught me that one must always be prepared for the unexpected.

5. El zarpazo de la crítica:

6. Su novela recibió el zarpazo de la crítica literaria, pero logró mantenerse relevante.

   • His novel faced the swipe of literary criticism but managed to stay relevant.

7. Zarpazo en el corazón:

8. La noticia de su muerte fue un zarpazo en el corazón de todos sus amigos.

   • The news of his death was a swipe to the heart for all his friends.

9. Zarpazo de un problema:

10. A veces, un zarpazo de un problema puede cambiar tu perspectiva por completo.
    • Sometimes, a sudden swipe of a problem can completely change your perspective.

Etymology

The word zarpazo is derived from zarpa, which means claw in Spanish. The term zarpa itself comes from the vulgar Latin sarpa, meaning claw or paw. The evolution of language has allowed zarpazo to take on a more nuanced meaning, reflecting both the physical action of swiping and its metaphorical implications.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Golpe (blow) - Arañazo (scratch) - Costalazo (large blow)

Antonyms: - Toque (touch) - Caricia (caress) - Abrazo (hug)

In conclusion, zarpazo is a versatile term with both literal and metaphorical applications in the Spanish language, depicting both physical actions and emotional reactions. Its use in idiomatic expressions enriches the language and provides vivid imagery.