Vocabulary
Spanish idiom used when someone unintentionally offends or touches on a sensitive subject.
Pisar callos
This expression is used to describe something that can have both positive and negative consequences, depending on how it is used.
Arma de doble filo
Get down to brass tacks, come to the point quickly
Ir al grano
Used when someone gives up or walks away from a situation, especially in frustration — this idiom involves tossing an object dramatically.
Tirar la toalla
When you start something from scratch or go back to zero, this idiom involves drawing.
Borron y cuenta nueva
This idiom refers to getting along really well with someone — as if the relationship couldn’t be more perfect.
Llevarse como uña y carne
This idiom is for when someone escapes just in time, often by a tiny margin
Por un pelo
This idiom is used when someone spends money recklessly or without thinking — like burning something very valuable or a very big party
Tirar la casa por la ventana
Spanish idiom used to describe someone who speaks frankly and bluntly, even if what they say might be unpleasant or politically incorrect. In other words, it refers to a person who is not afraid to express their opinions openly and without worrying about the possible consequences.
No tener pelos en la lengua
Idiom that refers to being in a difficult or impossible situation, where you have no good options
Estar entre la espada y la pared
To take the blame or suffer the consequences for something, often when it's not entirely your fault — or even when someone else caused the problem.
Pagar los platos rotos
This expression means someone is hiding something or keeping a secret advantage.
Tener un as bajo la manga
If someone is extremely lucky, almost miraculously so, they’re said to have this attached to them.
Nacer con estrella
If someone betrays or exposes you unexpectedly, this idiom says they’ve given you away — often with an animal involved.
Sacar los trapitos al sol
If someone finally gets what they deserve — good or bad — this idiom says they received this dish.
Cosechar lo que siembras
Spanish expression used to convey a willingness to face chaos, conflict, or destruction — no matter the consequences. It's often used when someone is ready to go all in, stir things up, or let things explode, even if it leads to serious fallout.
Que arda Troya
Used when someone makes a situation worse by saying or doing something unnecessary, this idiom involves adding something to an already messy scenario.
Echar leña al fuego
This idiom describes someone who acts innocent but is actually very clever or manipulative — like pretending to be something they’re not.
and
This expression refers to expecting the impossible.
Hacerse la mosquita muerta
and
Como pedirle peras al olmo
If someone’s being fooled or led to believe a lie.
and
This saying warns that rumors often have some truth behind them.
Dar gato por liebre
and
Cuando el río suena, es porque piedras lleva
This idiom describes something very easy to do — almost like taking dessert from a child.
Algo es pan comido