sacar libros
/sakaɾ libɾos/from spelling rules
The English phrase "check out books" is translated into Spanish as sacar libros.
This phrase is the standard way to describe the action of checking them out at a library. If you want to be more descriptive and say "to borrow some books", you can use pedir prestados unos libros.
What does it mean word for word?
The verb sacar literally means "to take out" or "to extract".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, one might say sacar libros de la biblioteca to mean "check out books". In Argentina, people often use the phrase retirar libros de la biblioteca to mean "withdraw books from the library".
How does it change in a sentence?
When referring to specific books (e.g., the ones you have selected), you should add the definite article los to form sacar los libros.
How do you pronounce it?
/sakaɾ libɾos/
Did you know?
- The verb sacar originates from the Gothic word sakan, which meant 'to dispute' or 'to rebuke'.
- While sacar is used for library books, it is also the standard verb for receiving a grade in school, such as sacar un diez to get a ten.
- Spanish distinguishes between the physical act of removing a book from the building, sacar, and the social act of asking for a loan, pedir prestado.
Examples in context
- Disculpe, ¿cómo puedo tomar libros en préstamo?Excuse me, how can I borrow books?
- Me voy a agarrar algunos libros interesantes de la bibliotecaI'm going to grab some interesting books from the library
- ¿Puedo sacar estos libros de la biblioteca?Can I check out these books from the library?
- Necesito sacar libros de la biblioteca.I need to check out books from the library.
- ¿Puedo sacar libros por dos semanas?Can I check out books for two weeks?
- Ella quiere sacar libros para su clase.She wants to check out books for her class.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Elena are at the local library.
- Alejandro¿Vas a sacar libros hoy, Elena?Are you going to check out books today, Elena?
- ElenaSí, quiero sacar libros de historia.Yes, I want to check out history books.
- AlejandroYo también voy a sacar libros.I am also going to check out books.
- ElenaPerfecto, nos vemos en la caja.Perfect, see you at the checkout.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sacar, CC BY-SA 4.0.
