Spanish Conversation · Level 162
29 words
Spanish word
pillar
Pronunciation
IPA/piˈʝaɾ/
Meaning
- verbget
Example
Perdón, no te pillo.
Sorry, I don't get what you're saying.
More examples
Creo que ya pillé el rollo.
I think I already got the gist.
Core concept
Hand snapping up a falling idea or object.
Common phrases
pillar el rollo
get the gist
pillar el mensaje
get the message
Similar words
entender: Gets the straightforward meaning of routine, everyday speech.
seguir: Tracks the course of conversation and keeps pace with new points.
captar: Detects rapidly the speaker's implied intention or atmosphere.
comprender: Understands a subject thoroughly, including how and why it works.
Definition in Spanish
Captar o entender algo de forma rápida; también atrapar físicamente a alguien; en forma pronominal, pillar(se) puede significar cogerse un resfriado o ser sorprendido; coloquialmente, indicar haber.
Word origin
Derived from Late Latin pillare 'to seize', the verb broadens a literal grabbing sense into quick mental grasps ('get') and colloquial senses of catching someone or catching an illness when reflexive.
Usage tips
- A common spoken-word verb, pillar frequently replaces English 'get' or 'catch' in casual contexts, so expect it mainly in informal speech rather than in formal writing.