trapo limpio
/tɾapo limpjo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "clean rag" is translated into Spanish as trapo limpio.
This phrase refers to a piece of cloth that is not dirty and is used for cleaning or wiping surfaces.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the term bayeta limpia is used to refer to a clean rag, as bayeta is a more common word for a cleaning cloth than trapo. In Argentina, repasador limpio is used for a clean rag used in the kitchen or dining area.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase follows the standard Spanish adjective-noun order where the adjective limpio follows the noun trapo. To make the phrase plural, both the noun and the adjective must take the plural suffix '-s'.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Because trapo is a masculine noun, the adjective must be the masculine form limpio rather than the feminine limpia.
Did you know?
- The word trapo can be used in the phrase tirar el trapo to describe giving up or surrendering in a competitive context.
- The word trapo shares a distant ancestor with the French word drapeau, which means 'flag'.
- While trapo means rag, in several Latin American countries it is used slangily to describe something of poor quality or 'cheap'.
Examples in context
- Necesito un trapo limpio para la mesa.I need a clean rag for the table.
- Usa ese trapo limpio para secar el espejo.Use that clean rag to wipe the mirror.
- ¿Dónde está el trapo limpio para la cocina?Where is the clean rag for the kitchen?
Example conversation
Alejandro and María are cleaning the kitchen together.
- AlejandroMaría, ¿dónde hay un trapo limpio?María, where is there a clean rag?
- MaríaEstán en el cajón de arriba, Alejandro.They are in the top drawer, Alejandro.
- AlejandroGracias, voy a limpiar este derrame.Thanks, I'm going to clean up this spill.
- MaríaDe nada, ten cuidado con el piso.You're welcome, be careful with the floor.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries limpio, trapo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
