un toque de
/un toke de/from spelling rules
The English phrase "a touch of" is translated into Spanish as un toque de.
un toque de is used both literally for physical contact and figuratively to describe a small amount or a hint of a quality, such as flavor, color or emotion.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of un (a), toque (touch/stroke/hit) and de (of).
How do you pronounce it?
/un toke de/
Did you know?
- The phrase dar un toque can be used to mean 'to give someone a quick call' or send a brief message on a phone.
- The word toque comes from the verb tocar, which means not only 'to touch' but also 'to play a musical instrument'.
- In the world of Spanish gastronomy, a toque can refer to a professional chef's unique 'signature' or style added to a dish.
Examples in context
- ¿Qué tal si añadimos un toque de pimienta?How about adding a touch of pepper?Tatoeba #1752582 by marcelostockle, translation #267696 by CK
- El reloj de péndulo no sirve solo para indicar la hora, también es un adorno que da un toque de glamour a tu hogar.Pendulum clocks aren't just for telling time. They're also a decoration that add a touch of glamour to your home.Tatoeba #1904044 by Shishir, translation #10501795 by DJ_Saidez
- Tengo que agregar un toque de sal a la receta.I have to add a touch of salt to the recipe.
- El diseñador utilizó un poco de dorado para darle un toque de elegancia.The designer used a touch of gold to give it an elegant look.
- La salsa tiene un ligero sabor picante.The sauce has a touch of spice.
- Voy a ponerle un poquito de azúcar al café.I'm going to add a touch of sugar to the coffee.
- Añádele una pizca de sal a la ensalada.Add a touch of salt to the salad.
- Me gustaría un toquecito de limón en mi refresco.I would like a touch of lemon in my soda.
- Este postre necesita un toque de canela.This dessert needs a touch of cinnamon.
Example conversation
Javier and Lucía are in the kitchen preparing a meal.
- JavierLucía, ¿le pongo un toque de sal a la sopa?Lucía, should I add a touch of salt to the soup?
- LucíaSí, Javier, pero solo un poco.Yes, Javier, but only a little.
- JavierEstá bien, lo haré con cuidado.Okay, I will do it carefully.
- LucíaGracias, va a quedar muy rica.Thanks, it is going to be very tasty.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
