Spanish Conversation · Level 182
15 words
Spanish word
hala
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈala/
Meaning
- interjectioncome on
Example
¡Hala, vamos!
Come on, let's go!
More examples
¡Hala, hombre, espabila!
Come on, man, wake up!
Core concept
A short colloquial exclamation that urges someone on or expresses mild surprise.
Common phrases
¡hala, vamos!
come on, let's go
¡hala, hombre!
come on, man
Similar words
venga: Colloquial exclamation encouraging someone to hurry or get moving.
vamos: Inclusive exclamation prompting people to start moving or act together.
Definition in Spanish
Equivale a ‘venga’ o ‘anda’ cuando anima a alguien y a ‘vaya’ cuando expresa sorpresa; su interpretación depende de la situación y de la entonación.
Word origin
From the verb halar 'to pull', originally a brief imperative used to spur movement that widened into a general interjection in colloquial Spanish.
Usage tips
- The initial h is silent and intonation changes the meaning: a rising or energetic tone urges someone, while a flat or falling tone signals surprise, and the word is best used in informal conversation.
Other meanings
- wowinterjection
- ohinterjection