dibujar un cuadro
/dibuxaɾ un kwadɾo/from spelling rules
To say 'draw picture' in Spanish, use dibujar un cuadro.
You can also use dibujar una imagen as a neutral and straightforward way to express the same idea. If you want to focus on the act of producing a drawing, hacer un dibujo is a common alternative. For a more casual or lighthearted tone, particularly when referring to smaller or less elaborate drawings, you can use the informal expression hacer un dibujito.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the continuous action of 'drawing a picture' rather than the intent to do so, use the gerund form dibujando un cuadro instead of the infinitive dibujar.
How do you pronounce it?
/dibuxaɾ un kwadɾo/
Did you know?
- The verb dibujar is related to the Old French word deboissier, which meant 'to clear land of trees'. This suggests an original meaning of 'marking out' or 'clearing' a space.
- The word cuadro can also mean 'frame' or 'chart'. Depending on the context, dibujar un cuadro could be interpreted as creating a data table rather than a work of art.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, cuadro is used metaphorically to describe a 'scene' or a 'situation'. One might describe a chaotic moment as un cuadro without any actual drawing being involved.
Examples in context
- Él puede dibujar un cuadro muy bonito.He can draw a very beautiful picture.
- ¿Te gustaría dibujar un cuadro en clase?Would you like to draw a picture in class?
Example conversation
Lucía and Javier are at an art class.
- LucíaJavier, ¿qué quieres hacer hoy?Javier, what do you want to do today?
- JavierMe gustaría dibujar un cuadro del paisaje.I would like to draw a picture of the landscape.
- LucíaEs una idea excelente.That is an excellent idea.
- Javier¡Vamos a empezar ahora mismo!Let's start right now!
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cuadro, dibujar, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
