embrague
/emˈbɾaɡe/
In Spanish, 'clutch' is translated as embrague.
The term embrague refers to the mechanical device used in vehicles to interrupt power transmission. In a driving context, you will commonly use the verb pisar (to press/step on) to say pisar el embrague (to press the clutch) or the verb soltar (to release/let out) to say soltar el embrague (to release the clutch).
Meaning: to grip or grasp tightly (verb)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico and Central American countries, the English word is often adapted into Spanish as el clutch.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/emˈbɾaɡe/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not use embrague to mean the verb 'to clutch' or 'to grip'. In Spanish, embrague is strictly a noun referring to the mechanical device, not an action.
Did you know?
- The root of embrague is connected to the word braga, which refers to a type of undergarment or breeches in Old Spanish.
- If you want to describe a 'clutch' action in a sports context, the word embrague will be completely misunderstood by a native speaker.
- In some regions, the act of releasing the clutch is described as soltar, a verb that also means 'to set free' or 'to let go' of a captive.
Examples in context
- El camión tenía algunos problemas con el embrague.The truck had some issues with the clutch.This sentence is useful for describing mechanical issues with the embrague.Tatoeba #4508696 by rsarias, translation #11771666 by rozsarozsa
- Pisa el embrague.Press the clutch.This sentence shows the standard way to say 'press the clutch' using embrague.Tatoeba #13365227 by Lernema, translation #13363134 by Igider
- Mete primera y suelta lentamente el embrague mientras aceleras un poco.Put it in first and slowly let out the clutch while you gradually accelerate.This sentence demonstrates how to describe the action of releasing the embrague while driving.Tatoeba #1246635 by wallebot, translation #2463823 by MethodGT
- Recuerda pisar el pedal de embrague antes de cambiar de marcha.Remember to step on the clutch pedal before changing gears.
- Me encanta el diseño del nuevo embrague de este automóvil.I love the design of the new clutch in this car.
- No olvides utilizar la palanca correctamente para activar el embrague.Don't forget to use the lever correctly to engage the clutch.
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Mateo and Sofia are in a car during a driving lesson.
- MateoNo olvides pisar el embrague antes de cambiar.Don't forget to press the clutch before shifting.
- SofíaLo siento, se me olvidó el embrague.I'm sorry, I forgot the clutch.
- MateoToma el embrague con calma, Sofía.Take the clutch calmly, Sofia.
- SofíaAhora ya entiendo cómo funciona el embrague.Now I understand how the clutch works.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry embrague, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries embrague, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
