Spanish Conversation · Level 1
86 words
Spanish word
arrancar
Pronunciation
IPA/araŋˈkaɾ/
Meaning
- verbstart
Example
Siempre arranco el coche por la mañana.
I always start the car in the morning.
More examples
En la reunión le costó arrancar la conversación con los compañeros.
At the meeting he had trouble getting the conversation going with his colleagues.
Core concept
A sudden, forceful start or burst of motion.
Common phrases
arrancar el motor
crank the engine
arrancar la conversación
get the conversation going
arrancar a correr
break into a run
Similar words
encender: Turns electrical devices on by supplying power through a switch or button.
poner en marcha: Operates controls to get a machine or vehicle running and functioning.
prender: Ignites a flame or switches an electrical appliance on to make it work.
echar a andar: Sets a machine or vehicle in motion so it begins to move from rest.
Definition in Spanish
Hacer funcionar un motor, vehículo u otra máquina que estaba detenido; también arrancar algo mediante un tirón y, figuradamente, empezar de forma repentina.
Word origin
The verb derives from Old Spanish arrancar with a basic sense of a forceful pull, and that image of sudden force produces uses for starting engines and for beginning actions abruptly.
Usage tips
- Arrancar often implies energy or suddenness and contrasts with empezar, so it fits contexts that need emphasis on force or abruptness rather than a neutral 'start'.