sacar las garras
/sakaɾ las ɡaras/from spelling rules
The English phrase "claws out" is translated into Spanish as sacar las garras.
This phrase is used metaphorically to describe a person becoming defensive, hostile or aggressive in a confrontation. It signifies that someone is ready to fight or has become aggressive to defend themselves or attack others.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a literal translation of 'to take out the claws' (sacar = to take out/extract, las garras = the claws).
How do you pronounce it?
/sakaɾ las ɡaras/
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking contexts, the word garra can be a compliment. While sacar las garras is negative, calling someone 'una persona con garra' means they have great courage, determination, and fighting spirit.
- The Gothic word 𐍃𐌰𐌺𐌰𐌽, which is a relative of the Spanish sacar, originally meant 'to rebuke' or 'to dispute'. This historical meaning of 'to argue' is subtly preserved in the modern aggressive use of the phrase.
- While sacar las garras describes aggression, Spanish has a related idiom sacar los dientes which means 'to show one's teeth' to intimidate an opponent.
Examples in context
- En cuanto le criticaron el trabajo, sacó las garras.As soon as they criticized his work, he bared his claws.
Example conversation
Javier and Elena are discussing a difficult coworker.
- JavierEsa colega siempre intenta hacernos quedar mal.That colleague is always trying to make us look bad.
- ElenaEs hora de sacar las garras y defendernos.It is time to bring out the claws and defend ourselves.
- Javier¿De verdad crees que sea necesario?Do you really think that's necessary?
- ElenaSí, Javier, ella no se detendrá sola.Yes, Javier, she won't stop on her own.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries las, sacar, CC BY-SA 4.0.
