Spanish Conversation · Level 46
75 words
Spanish word
espaldarazo
Pronunciation
IPA/espaldaˈɾaθo/
Meaning
- masculine nounboost
Example
Ese reconocimiento fue un espaldarazo para su carrera.
That recognition was a boost for his career.
More examples
Su familia le dio un espaldarazo antes de la competencia.
His family gave him a boost before the competition.
Core concept
An authoritative endorsement that gives momentum to a career.
Common phrases
dar un espaldarazo
give a boost
recibir un espaldarazo
receive a boost
un espaldarazo moral
a moral boost
Similar words
apoyo: Material or logistical support that sustains ongoing efforts.
respaldo: Public backing that legitimizes and bolsters someone's position.
estímulo: Immediate incentive that spurs action and promotes growth.
aval: Formal guarantee or approval that bolsters confidence in reliability.
Definition in Spanish
Apoyo o reconocimiento oficial que refuerza la posición o el trabajo de una persona y facilita su avance.
Word origin
Derived from espalda 'back' plus the augmentative/impact suffix -azo, the term figuratively likens a formal endorsement to a forceful push that strengthens a person's standing.
Usage tips
- Frequently appears in news and official contexts to signal institutional support and commonly collocates with recibir un espaldarazo rather than everyday compliments.
Other meanings
- backingnoun
- encouragementnoun
- impetusnoun
Opposites
- desalientodiscouragementnoun
- obstáculoobstaclenoun